Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- Melt the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Make a Roux: Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute until golden.
- Add Milk and Cream: Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream to avoid lumps.
- Season the Sauce: Add Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Melt the Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Layer the Dish: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the cheese sauce.
- Add Broccoli: Layer the broccoli florets on top of the sauce.
- Place the Chicken: Arrange the seared chicken fillets over the broccoli.
- Pour Remaining Sauce: Evenly coat everything with the remaining cheese sauce.
- Top It Off: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove foil and bake for 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve with rice, pasta, or garlic bread.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired!
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Oven-safe foil
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace flour with almond flour and use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Different Cheese: Try Swiss, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a twist.
- Mushroom Lover’s Version: Add sautéed mushrooms to the broccoli layer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just thaw and drain excess water before adding it to the dish.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Assemble everything but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of fillets?
Absolutely! Bone-in or boneless thighs work great but may need extra cooking time.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with mashed potatoes, quinoa, or steamed veggies.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Make it ahead: Assemble in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
- Balance the flavors by adjusting salt, pepper, and cheese to taste.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fats: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 640mg
Conclusion
This Irresistible 5-Star Baked Broccoli Chicken Fillets in Creamy Cheese Sauce is a crowd-pleaser that brings together tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a decadent cheese sauce in one easy dish. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy every cheesy bite!
