Cheese Chicken is a simple and tasty dish that everyone loves! Tender chicken pieces are baked with gooey cheese on top, making them melt in your mouth.
It’s perfect for a family dinner. Add a side of veggies, and you’ve got a meal that makes everybody happy. I love how easy it is to prep—just season the chicken and let the oven do the work!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I like using thighs for their juiciness, but you can swap them for chicken breasts if you prefer. Just cook the breasts a little longer to make sure they’re tender and juicy.
Broccoli: Broccoli adds color and nutrition, but you could easily use other veggies like spinach, green beans, or bell peppers if you have those on hand.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce thick and rich. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try half-and-half or a dairy-free cream substitute. Just know the texture might change.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic, but feel free to experiment with others like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for different flavors. Make sure whatever you pick melts well!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your chicken juicy, the searing step is key. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice golden crust while keeping the inside moist.
- Don’t crowd the pan; give each piece space to sear properly.
- Always let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it tender!
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken every time, making your cheese chicken dish a hit! Enjoy your meal!
Delicious and Creamy Cheese Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
Vegetables:
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cooking Essentials:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend that melts well)
Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cheese Chicken recipe can be prepared in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes getting everything ready and cooking the ingredients together, making it a quick and delightful meal option for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats up, season the chicken with salt and pepper generously. Once the oil is hot, gently add the chicken pieces to the pan. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are nicely golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute, stirring to avoid burning the garlic.
3. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Now it’s time to pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. This will help combine the flavors beautifully!
4. Adding Cheese and Broccoli:
Once the mixture is simmering, stir in the Dijon mustard (if you’re using it), along with the shredded cheese and broccoli florets. Continue to cook until the cheese is completely melted and you have a creamy sauce.
5. Bringing it All Together:
Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken and let it all simmer together for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the broccoli is tender. This step allows the chicken to absorb all that delicious sauce!
6. Serving and Garnishing:
Finally, garnish your delightful Cheese Chicken with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm alongside rice or crusty bread to soak up that creamy sauce. Enjoy your meal!
This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its rich flavors and creamy texture—perfect for dinner any night of the week!
img src=”https://stewandspice.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/cheese-chicken.webp” alt=””>
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s crucial to thaw it completely before cooking. For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight or place the sealed chicken in cold water for a quick thaw. Always ensure it’s cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
To lighten the dish, consider using skinless chicken breast instead of thighs and swap the heavy cream for a lighter option like half-and-half or a lower-fat milk. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat cheese alternative for fewer calories.
What If I Don’t Have Broccoli?
No worries! If you don’t have broccoli on hand, you can substitute it with other veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or green beans. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as softer veggies may need less time in the pan.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.