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Sautéing broccoli prior to baking is a crucial step in ensuring that the vegetable retains its vibrant green color, nutritional value, and delightful crunch. When broccoli is sautéed, it undergoes a quick cooking process that helps to soften its texture while bringing out its natural flavors. This step not only enhances the taste but also prepares the broccoli to absorb the flavors of the other ingredients in the skillet bake.

Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Skillet Bake

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Skillet Bake. Combining tender, juicy chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a melty blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese, this dish is both delicious and nutritious. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it’s easy to prepare and sure to please the entire family. With its satisfying textures and flavors, this dish is a delightful twist on classic casseroles that everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup cooked quinoa or rice

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

½ cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

½ cup chicken broth

½ teaspoon dried thyme

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's hot and ready for baking when you finish preparing the dish.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cubed chicken breasts. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and thoroughly cooked through.

      Incorporate the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir well and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is vibrant in color and tender yet retains a slight crunch.

        Combine Ingredients: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. To the skillet, add the cooked quinoa (or rice), softened cream cheese, chicken broth, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated, and continue cooking until the cream cheese is melted and smoothly integrated into the mixture.

          Create the Cheesy Top Layer: Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar cheese across the top of the mixture in the skillet. Ensure it covers most of the surface for that delightful cheesy experience.

            Bake to Perfection: Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, monitoring closely, until the cheese is bubbly and beautifully golden brown on top.

              Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven (it will be hot!). Allow it to cool for a couple of minutes before garnishing with finely chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy this deliciously cheesy and hearty bake!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings