Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty yet simple dish to impress your family or guests, this baked chicken with broccoli and bacon is a fantastic option. Combining tender chicken, creamy cheddar cheese, and savory bacon, this recipe is both delicious and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally to create 4 filets
½ tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons ranch dressing mix, divided
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
12-ounce package frozen broccoli florets
4 strips bacon, cooked and chopped
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
To prepare this dish, simply follow the outlined instructions for a delightful meal that your entire family will love. Enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors and the ease of preparation that this recipe offers!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that it reaches the correct temperature for baking your dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking to the dish during baking.
Step 3: Place the Chicken in the Dish
Take the chicken filets and place them in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
Step 4: Brush with Olive Oil
Using a brush, brush each chicken filet with olive oil to keep them moist and enhance flavor.
Step 5: Sprinkle Ranch Dressing Mix
Sprinkle half of the ranch dressing mix evenly over the chicken filets. This will add flavor to the chicken.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Bacon
Top each chicken filet with half of the shredded cheddar cheese and evenly distribute all of the chopped bacon over the top.
Step 7: Arrange Broccoli
Carefully arrange the frozen broccoli florets on top of the chicken and sprinkle the remaining ranch dressing mix over the broccoli.
Step 8: Bake First Time
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.
Step 9: Add More Cheese
After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken and broccoli.
Step 10: Bake Again
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 11: Check Internal Temperature
Ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving. This is important for food safety.
Notes
Cooking Time
The total cooking time is approximately 30 minutes, but the chicken’s thickness may affect the actual time required.
Use of Bacon
For a healthier alternative, you can omit the bacon or use turkey bacon.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side salad or rice for a complete meal.
Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Cook techniques
Oven Baking
Oven baking is a common cooking method that ensures even cooking and browning. In this recipe, the chicken filets are baked at 400°F (200°C) to achieve a juicy interior and a crisp cheese topping.
Layering Ingredients
Layering ingredients helps to create a balanced dish. By arranging the chicken, cheese, bacon, and broccoli in layers, each element contributes to the overall flavor and texture.
Brushing with Olive Oil
Brushing the chicken filets with olive oil adds moisture and flavor while promoting a nice browning effect during baking.
Using Ranch Dressing Mix
Ranch dressing mix serves as a seasoning that enhances the flavor of the chicken and complements the cheese and bacon.
Monitoring Internal Temperature
Checking the internal temperature of the chicken, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C), is crucial for food safety and guarantees that the chicken is fully cooked.
FAQ
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli can be used. Just make sure to blanch it slightly before adding it to the dish to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for ranch dressing mix?
You can use Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or a combination of herbs and spices to season the chicken if you don’t have ranch dressing mix.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
You can use low-fat cheese, turkey bacon, or skip the bacon entirely and add more vegetables to create a healthier version.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if the dish is chilled when you put it in the oven.
What should I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a simple salad, quinoa, or brown rice for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This delicious chicken recipe combines tender chicken filets with rich flavors of ranch, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, all topped with nutritious broccoli. It’s a satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner, providing both protein and vegetables in one dish.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken and Spinach Alfredo Bake
Substitute broccoli with fresh spinach and use fettuccine Alfredo sauce in place of ranch dressing for a creamy twist.
BBQ Chicken Bake
Use BBQ sauce instead of ranch dressing mix and top with mozzarella cheese for a tangy flavor profile, paired perfectly with corn on the side.
Cheesy Taco Chicken
Mix taco seasoning in with the chicken and top with pepper jack cheese and diced tomatoes for a southwestern flair.
Pesto Chicken and Asparagus
Swap out ranch dressing for basil pesto and add asparagus for a vibrant, herby dish that’s packed with flavor.
Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Instead of baking, quickly sauté the chicken filets with peppers, snap peas, and a splash of soy sauce for a quick stir-fry variation.
