Creamy broccoli, mushroom & chicken bake

Name: Creamy Broccoli, Mushroom, and Chicken Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Western
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, cubed; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Delight in a comforting creamy broccoli, mushroom, and chicken bake. Tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp broccoli florets baked in a rich and creamy sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs. This hearty dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious bake!

500g broccoli, cut into small florets and stalks finely chopped
6 (about 1kg) free-range chicken thigh fillets, trimmed
150g button mushrooms, sliced
2 green onions (shallots), trimmed and thinly sliced
75g butter, chopped (check)
1/3 cup plain flour
2 cups milk (not skim)
1 cup reduced salt chicken stock
1½ cups grated cheddar cheese
1 cup fresh coarse torn breadcrumbs

STEP 1 Bring a medium saucepan of water to the boil over high heat. Add broccoli and cook for 1 minute until vibrant. Drain, refresh broccoli in cold water and set aside to dry.

STEP 2 Preheat oven to 180°C/160°C fan-forced. Arrange broccoli, chicken, mushrooms and green onions in a large (about 8-10 cup) greased baking pan. Set aside.

STEP 3 Dry the saucepan used for the broccoli. Add butter to pan and heat over medium-low heat until bubbling. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add flour and using a small whisk, stir constantly for 2 minutes until frothy. Decrease heat to low, and gradually whisk in milk and stock. Cook, stirring, for 4-5 minutes until sauce boils and thickens. Stir in 1 cup cheese. Season to taste.

STEP 4 Pour cheese sauce over broccoli mixture. Scatter over breadcrumbs and remaining ½ cup cheese. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is just cooked through and sauce is bubbling and serve.

Nutritional Facts

Broccoli: High in iron, potassium, and vitamins C and K.
Chicken thigh fillets: High in protein.
Button mushrooms: Rich in B vitamins and antioxidants.
Cheddar cheese: Source of calcium and protein.

Tips and Tricks

Creamy Broccoli Mushroom and Chicken Bake: Choose fresh broccoli florets and tender mushrooms for a creamy bake. Substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for a different protein option.