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Create a creamy and flavorful Cheese Chicken dish packed with tender chicken, rich cheese sauce, and fresh broccoli. Perfect for family dinners, this recipe offers a hearty and comforting meal option with easy-to-follow instructions. Whether served with roasted potatoes, pasta, or a crisp salad, this dish brings a delicious twist to your table. Try it for your next weeknight meal or special occasion.

Ingredients

Chicken

6 strips thick-cut bacon (optional, see notes)
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
½ cup all-purpose flour
4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, finely shredded
3-4 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce

3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups milk
½ teaspoon each: onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder
1 teaspoon hot sauce
2 ½ cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded

Instructions

Prep Work

Combine the flour and shredded Parmesan cheese in a bowl and set aside.
Measure out the remaining ingredients before starting.
Slice each chicken breast into 2-3 thinner pieces. If needed, pound them to an even thickness of ½ inch. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken slices on both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dredge them in the flour-Parmesan mixture, shaking off any excess.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken in batches, 2-3 pieces at a time, ensuring there’s space between each piece. Sauté for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Repeat with the remaining pieces, adjusting the heat as necessary and adding more oil if needed. Avoid moving the chicken while it cooks to achieve a crispy crust.

Make the Sauce

Wipe out excess oil from the skillet, leaving the browned bits (fond) for added flavor.
Melt the butter in the skillet over medium heat. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up the fond as the butter melts.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Gradually add the chicken broth in small amounts, whisking continuously to keep the sauce thick and smooth. Repeat with the milk.
Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder, and hot sauce. Add the chopped broccoli and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Lower the heat and let the sauce cool slightly. Gradually sprinkle in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and fully incorporated.
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Let the chicken heat through for 5 minutes. Garnish with cooked bacon if desired and serve with baked potatoes or your favorite sides.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and broccoli creates a well-rounded dish.
Family-Friendly: Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions.
Versatile: Easily customizable with different cheeses or added vegetables.

Tips

Prep in Advance: Have all ingredients measured and ready to streamline the cooking process.
Even Cooking: Pound the chicken to ensure uniform thickness for consistent results.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it can affect the sauce’s texture.

Variations and Substitutions

Bacon-Free Option: Skip the bacon and use butter for cooking the chicken.
Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken with tofu or portobello mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
Cheese Options: Swap cheddar with Monterey Jack or gouda for a different flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before combining.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended as the cheese sauce may separate upon thawing.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with roasted potatoes, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad.
Serve over rice or pasta for a heartier meal.
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

This Cheese Chicken recipe is a perfect addition to any dinner table. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a household favorite!