Description

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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.

Instructions

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.