These Baked Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Patties are perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. The golden crust, combined with the cheesy and tender interior, offers a satisfying bite with every mouthful. Paired with a side of your favorite vegetables or a fresh salad, this dish is both delicious and nutritious.
Whether you’re looking for a quick family meal or a healthy snack, these patties are a great choice. Packed with protein and fiber from the chicken and broccoli, they make for a fulfilling meal that’s sure to leave you feeling satisfied without the guilt. Plus, they’re super easy to customize! Add some herbs or spices to suit your flavor preferences, or switch up the cheese for variety. No matter how you serve them, these patties will be a hit!
Full Recipe:
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1 lb (450g) ground chicken
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2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs
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1 egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Olive oil spray for baking
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
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Steam the broccoli florets until tender, then chop finely.
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In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
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Using your hands, form the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter.
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Place the patties on the prepared baking tray and spray lightly with olive oil.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
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Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or a side salad.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes Kcal: 180 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Baked Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Patties
The Baked Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Patties are the perfect combination of flavor and nutrition. This dish brings together the best of both worlds — a comforting, savory meal that’s packed with protein and vegetables. Made with lean chicken, fresh broccoli, and cheddar cheese, these patties are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken patties while still delivering the same satisfying crunch and delicious taste. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering, this recipe is versatile, easy to make, and full of wholesome ingredients that will make everyone smile.
Why Choose Baked Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Patties?
Baked Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Patties stand out for several reasons. First, they are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a main dish with a side of your choice or even made into a quick snack or appetizer. The combination of broccoli and chicken offers a perfect balance of protein and fiber, making them a filling and nutritious option. The addition of cheddar cheese enhances the flavor, while baking instead of frying ensures a healthier cooking method without sacrificing taste.
This recipe is perfect for busy families looking for a meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. It’s also an excellent choice for meal prep, as these patties can be made in bulk, stored in the fridge, and reheated throughout the week. Not only do they provide a balanced meal, but they also offer convenience for those with hectic schedules.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
The main ingredients in Baked Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Patties — chicken, broccoli, and cheese — come with a host of health benefits that make them an excellent addition to any diet.
Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. It’s also packed with vitamins and minerals, such as niacin (vitamin B3), selenium, and phosphorus, which contribute to various bodily functions, including metabolism and immune health.
Broccoli, on the other hand, is a nutritional powerhouse. This cruciferous vegetable is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and folate. It’s also packed with antioxidants that help fight inflammation and protect the body from oxidative stress. Incorporating broccoli into your diet is a great way to boost your intake of nutrients while supporting digestive health.
Cheddar cheese adds flavor and a touch of creaminess to the patties. It’s a good source of calcium, which is vital for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. While cheese should be consumed in moderation due to its calorie and fat content, it provides a rich source of essential nutrients like protein and vitamins A and B12, which are beneficial for the body.
The Versatility of Baked Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Patties
One of the best aspects of Baked Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Patties is their versatility. You can enjoy them in a variety of ways and tailor them to suit your preferences. These patties are easy to customize, whether you’re looking to add more vegetables, change up the cheese, or experiment with different herbs and spices.
For instance, if you’re not a fan of cheddar, you can substitute it with mozzarella, feta, or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option. If you want to make the patties even more flavorful, you could add ingredients like chopped onions, spinach, or mushrooms. You could also spice things up by adding chili flakes, paprika, or a dash of mustard for a more savory or tangy flavor profile.
These patties can be served in a variety of ways. You can enjoy them with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even in a sandwich or wrap for a complete meal. They also make a great appetizer for parties or a quick snack for on-the-go. The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving these patties, making them a great dish to keep in your regular meal rotation.
How Baked Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Patties Fit into a Healthy Diet
Baked Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Patties are a great option for anyone following a balanced, health-conscious diet. They offer a good mix of protein and fiber, making them a filling and satisfying choice that won’t leave you feeling sluggish or overstuffed.
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can make slight adjustments to the recipe by swapping breadcrumbs for almond flour or ground flaxseeds to reduce the carb count. For those following gluten-free diets, the recipe is also adaptable by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or a flour alternative. These adjustments allow the patties to fit a wide range of dietary preferences while still maintaining their delicious taste and texture.
Furthermore, baking the patties instead of frying them means they’re lower in unhealthy fats and calories. This makes them a healthier option compared to many other types of chicken patties, which are often deep-fried in oil. The baked version still delivers a crispy exterior, providing the satisfying crunch people love without the extra oil.
Meal Prep and Leftover Ideas
One of the best things about these patties is that they are perfect for meal prep. Since they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, you can make a big batch at the start of the week and have a healthy option ready to go for lunches or dinners. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick and convenient meal.
If you have leftovers, there are plenty of ways to repurpose them into new meals. You can crumble the patties and use them as a topping for a salad or mix them with pasta for a quick dinner. You can also make a chicken patty sandwich, using whole grain bread or a lettuce wrap for a lighter option. These leftovers are also great in wraps or tortillas with your favorite veggies and sauces.
The Appeal for Families and Kids
Baked Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Patties are a family-friendly meal that both adults and kids will enjoy. The cheesy, savory flavor is sure to be a hit with even the pickiest eaters. Plus, the fact that they contain broccoli means you’re sneaking in some vegetables without anyone even noticing — a perfect way to boost your family’s vegetable intake.
These patties are also a great option for busy parents looking to prepare a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The simplicity of the recipe and the quick cooking time make it a great weeknight dinner. The fact that you can make them in bulk also makes it easier to plan meals ahead of time, so you don’t have to worry about cooking every day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Baked Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Patties are an easy, healthy, and delicious recipe that everyone can enjoy. With the combination of lean chicken, nutritious broccoli, and flavorful cheese, these patties offer a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Their versatility, health benefits, and the fact that they can be enjoyed in so many different ways make them an excellent choice for anyone looking for a quick and nutritious meal. So why not try making them today and add a new favorite dish to your recipe collection?