Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake Recipe

Looking for a comforting and easy-to-make meal that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce? This Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake is the perfect choice. It’s ideal for a family dinner or when you need a hearty dish that can be prepared in advance. This bake offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with its golden, bubbling top and a creamy filling beneath.

What is Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake?

Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake is a comforting casserole-style dish where cooked chicken and fresh broccoli are baked in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with breadcrumbs and more cheese for a crispy, golden finish. It’s simple to prepare, deliciously satisfying, and perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Tuscan Chicken
• Hairy Bikers Chicken Cacciatore
• Mary Berry Paprika Chicken

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Comforting and filling: The creamy sauce and tender chicken make this dish hearty and satisfying.
• Family-friendly: A dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Easy to make ahead: Perfect for preparing in advance and baking when needed.
• Great use of leftovers: You can use leftover chicken or vegetables in this bake.
• Nutrient-packed: Broccoli adds fiber and vitamins, making this dish nutritious as well as tasty.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake

• 500g (1 lb) cooked chicken – shredded or diced, preferably breast or thigh meat.
• 300g (10 oz) broccoli florets – steamed or blanched until tender.
• 1 large onion – finely chopped.
• 2 garlic cloves – minced for added flavor.
• 50g (1.75 oz) butter – for the sauce.
• 50g (1.75 oz) plain flour – to thicken the sauce.
• 500ml (17 fl oz) milk – to create the creamy sauce.
• 100g (3.5 oz) cheddar cheese – grated, for both the sauce and topping.
• 2 tbsp breadcrumbs – for a crispy topping.
• Salt and pepper – to taste for seasoning.
• Fresh parsley (optional) – for garnish.

Equipment

• Large frying pan – for preparing the sauce.
• Baking dish – to assemble the bake.
• Wooden spoon – for stirring the sauce.
• Whisk – to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce.
• Knife and chopping board – for preparing the chicken and broccoli.

Instructions to Prepare Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake

Step 1: Prepare the broccoli

• Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until tender but still vibrant. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the onion and garlic

• In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Make the creamy cheese sauce

• Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened. Stir in half of the grated cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the bake

• In a large baking dish, layer the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the top, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Add the topping

• Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the dish. This creates a crispy, golden finish when baked.

Step 6: Bake the dish

• Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Step 7: Serve

• Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake hot with your favorite sides.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake

• Crusty bread: Perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce.
• Green salad: A fresh salad provides a light contrast to the richness of the bake.
• Rice or quinoa: Serve alongside for a more filling meal.
• Steamed vegetables: Add extra nutrition with a side of steamed carrots or green beans.
• Roasted potatoes: Crispy potatoes are a great accompaniment to this creamy bake.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake

• Cook the broccoli just right: Avoid overcooking the broccoli to keep it tender but not mushy.
• Use leftover chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover roast chicken.
• Add variety to the topping: Mix some parmesan or herbs into the breadcrumbs for extra flavor in the crispy topping.
• Grate your own cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes richer than pre-shredded varieties.
• Customize the vegetables: You can add other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or spinach to bulk up the bake.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a little heat.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with more vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Different cheeses: Swap out the cheddar for mozzarella, Gruyère, or parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Add bacon: For a smoky flavor, stir in some crispy bacon bits before baking.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: This dish freezes well. Allow the bake to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Portion for meal prep: Divide the bake into individual portions and store in mason jars or containers for easy meal prep.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake

• Oven: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the top is crispy again.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, though the topping may lose some crispness.
• Stovetop: For a quick reheat, transfer to a stovetop pan and heat gently, stirring occasionally.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake Healthier?

• Use low-fat milk: Swap full-fat milk with a low-fat or plant-based alternative for a lighter sauce.
• Reduce the cheese: Cut back on the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat variety to reduce calories.
• Add more vegetables: Bulk up the dish with extra vegetables like spinach or peas to add fiber and nutrients.
• Use whole grain breadcrumbs: For a healthier topping, opt for whole grain or panko breadcrumbs.
• Lighter sauce: Substitute some or all of the butter with olive oil or omit it altogether.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken in a chicken and broccoli bake?

Yes, you can use raw chicken in Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake. However, to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat, increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 75°C (165°F). You can also sear the chicken briefly before adding it to the bake to speed up the cooking process.

Can I freeze chicken and broccoli bake?

Yes, Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake freeze well. Allow the bake to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until heated through.

How do I prevent broccoli from becoming mushy in a bake?

To prevent broccoli from becoming mushy in Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake, blanch or steam the broccoli for only 3-4 minutes until it’s just tender. This helps maintain its texture and ensures it doesn’t overcook in the oven.

Can I make chicken and broccoli bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake ahead of time. Simply prepare the dish, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature and bake as directed.

More By British Baking Recipes

• Mary Berry Chicken Malaysian Curry
• Mary Berry Chicken Tray Bake
• Jamie Oliver Chicken Curry With Coconut Milk
• Hairy Bikers Sweet and Sour Chicken

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Final Words

This Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake is a comforting, family-friendly dish that’s simple to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli, it’s a well-balanced meal that can be served on its own or with a variety of sides. Perfect for making ahead, this recipe is a go-to for any busy weeknight or special occasion.