Cheese Chicken – Creamy, Cheesy, and Loaded with Broccoli

This Cheese Chicken recipe is the ultimate comfort food! Juicy, golden chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce with tender broccoli, creating a one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknights or cozy dinners. Spoon the cheesy goodness over baked potatoes for a complete, hearty dinner everyone will love.

With a velvety sauce, melty cheddar, and Parmesan, every bite is indulgent yet approachable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor
• One-pan skillet meal for easy cleanup
• Packed with broccoli for a healthy boost
• Quick and satisfying, ready in under an hour
• Perfect over baked potatoes for a full dinner

Ingredients

Chicken

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts – sliced into thinner pieces for even cooking
• Salt and pepper – for seasoning
• 3 teaspoons Italian seasonings – adds aromatic flavor
• ½ cup all-purpose flour – for dredging and creating a light crust
• 4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese – enhances flavor and adds crispness
• 3-4 tablespoons olive oil – for searing chicken
• Optional: 6 strips thick-cut bacon – crumbled as a garnish

Cheese Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter – for a rich base
• 3 tablespoons flour – for thickening
• 1 cup chicken broth – builds depth of flavor
• 2 cups milk – creates creamy texture
• ½ teaspoon each: onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder – adds subtle seasoning
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce – enhances flavor without heat
• 2 ½ cups broccoli florets – finely chopped for quick cooking
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded – melts into a creamy sauce
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded – adds tangy richness

How to Make Cheese Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Slice the chicken into 2-3 thinner pieces. Pound to ½-inch thickness for even cooking and juiciness. Pat dry.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then dredge in the flour-Parmesan mixture, tapping off excess. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside. Repeat with remaining pieces.

Tip: Avoid moving the chicken too much while cooking to achieve a nice crust.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

Wipe excess oil from the pan but leave the flavorful browned bits (fond). Melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook 2 minutes.

Slowly add chicken broth, stirring continuously, then add milk the same way. Stir in seasonings, hot sauce, and chopped broccoli. Bring to a gentle bubble for 4–5 minutes until broccoli softens.

Reduce heat to low and slowly mix in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce on top. Heat through for 5 minutes. Optional: crumble cooked bacon over the top. Serve hot with baked potatoes.

Tips for Success

• Use freshly shredded cheese from a block to avoid grainy sauce
• Ensure the sauce base isn’t too hot when adding cheese
• Pound chicken to create surface texture for dredging and juicier meat
• Hot sauce boosts flavor without making it spicy
• Optional bacon adds smoky richness

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Silicone spatula or whisk
• Meat tenderizer (for pounding chicken)

Recipe Variations

• Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauce
• Spicy Version: Increase hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne
• Low-Carb: Serve over steamed cauliflower instead of baked potatoes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over baked potatoes or mashed potatoes
• Pair with steamed rice for a hearty meal
• Add a side of garlic bread or fresh salad for balance

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook chicken and sauce separately. Reheat gently, then combine before serving.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs work well and stay extra juicy.

How do I prevent the cheese from separating?
Ensure the sauce base is warm, not boiling, when you add the cheese. Stir continuously.

Can I omit the bacon?
Yes! The dish is delicious without it; bacon is optional for added flavor.

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Final Thoughts

This Cheese Chicken is a creamy, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of tender chicken, cheesy sauce, and broccoli makes it a family favorite, especially served over baked potatoes. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to impress!