Creamy Baked Chicken with Broccoli and Fresh Herb Salad

This Creamy Baked Chicken with Broccoli is a wholesome and flavorful dish, perfectly complemented by a fresh herb salad. Juicy chicken fillets and tender broccoli are baked in a rich, cheesy cream sauce, making this a hearty and satisfying meal. The fresh cucumber, tomato, and dill salad adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy main dish. Ideal for a family dinner or meal prep, this recipe is packed with nutrients and flavor.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

For the Creamy Baked Chicken:

  • 4 chicken eggs
  • Salt, to taste
  • Ground black pepper, to taste
  • 100 ml (1/2 cup) cream (20-30% fat)
  • 500 g (1.1 lbs) broccoli, cut into florets
  • Water, for boiling
  • 2 chicken fillets (approximately 400-500 g or 1 lb)
  • Some vegetable oil, for frying
  • Spices for chicken (paprika, garlic powder, or your favorite blend), to taste
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 150 g (5.3 oz) hard mozzarella cheese, grated (reserve some for topping)
  • 60 g (1/4 cup) sour cream
  • 30 g (2 tbsp) mayonnaise

For the Fresh Herb Salad:

  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • A bunch of dill, chopped
  • A bunch of fresh basil, torn
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

For the Creamy Baked Chicken:

  1. Prepare the Broccoli:
    • Boil water in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and blanch the broccoli florets for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken:
    • Season the chicken fillets with salt, black pepper, and your preferred spices.
    • Heat some vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken fillets until golden brown on both sides but not fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Cream Sauce:
    • In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
  4. Assemble the Dish:
    • Grease a baking dish with a little oil. Spread the broccoli florets and sliced onion evenly in the dish.
    • Place the chicken fillets on top of the vegetables.
    • Pour the cream mixture over the chicken and broccoli.
    • Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese on top, reserving some for later use.
  5. Bake:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F).
    • Bake the dish for 30 minutes. In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the reserved mozzarella cheese over the top for a golden finish.

For the Fresh Herb Salad:

  1. Combine cucumber, tomatoes, dill, and fresh basil in a bowl.
  2. Add minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to combine.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the creamy baked chicken alongside the fresh herb salad for a complete meal.
  • Pair with garlic bread or steamed rice for added comfort.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure the chicken is not overcooked in the skillet as it will continue to cook in the oven.
  • Use freshly grated mozzarella for better flavor and texture.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce for a subtle, warm flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein.
  • Broccoli is rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
  • The herb salad adds vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables and herbs.

Dietary Information

  • Low-carb and gluten-free.
  • Can be made keto-friendly by replacing mayonnaise with a high-fat alternative.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Fiber: 3g

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm. Avoid freezing as the cream sauce may separate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • The creamy sauce makes the chicken and broccoli irresistibly tender and flavorful.
  • The fresh salad balances the richness of the main dish perfectly.
  • It’s an easy one-dish meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.
  • A great option for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.

Conclusion
This Creamy Baked Chicken with Broccoli and Fresh Herb Salad is a wonderful combination of rich and fresh flavors. The tender chicken and cheesy broccoli pair beautifully with the refreshing salad, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and flavor. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, homemade delight!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
    Yes, thaw the broccoli before blanching to prevent excess water in the dish.
  2. Can I substitute chicken fillets with thighs?
    Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well and add more juiciness to the dish.
  3. What other cheeses can I use?
    Cheddar, Gouda, or Parmesan can be used as substitutes for mozzarella.
  4. Can I skip the mayonnaise?
    Yes, replace it with an extra 30g of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
  5. How do I know when the dish is done?
    The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the cheese should be golden and bubbly.
  6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    Yes, assemble the dish (excluding the baking step) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
  7. Can I add other vegetables?
    Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers make excellent additions.
  8. Is there a dairy-free option?
    Use dairy-free cream, cheese, and mayonnaise for a lactose-free version.
  9. What can I serve instead of salad?
    Serve with roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a crusty baguette.
  10. Can I freeze leftovers?
    It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the cream sauce may separate upon reheating.