Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
  • 1 large (about 300g) head of broccoli, cut into florets
  • ½ tsp (2.5ml) salt
  • ¼ tsp (1.25ml) black pepper
  • 4 tbsp (56g) unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp (32g) all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups (720ml) whole milk
  • ½ tsp (2.5ml) salt
  • ¼ tsp (1.25ml) black pepper
  • ¼ tsp (1.25ml) ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 2 cups (225g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • ½ cup (50g) panko breadcrumbs (optional)
  • 2 tbsp (28g) melted butter (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C). Season with salt and pepper. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until crisp-tender (about 5 minutes).
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until a smooth paste forms (a roux!). Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Cook until thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.
  5. Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Add 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
  6. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
  7. Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top. If using, toss panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious broccoli chicken bake recipe!