Name: Tuscan Chicken Broccoli Bake (Low Carb) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Tuscan
Ingredients: 2 eggs, lightly beaten; 1 heaping cup cottage cheese; 1/3 cup pesto; 4 small broccoli crowns, cut into small florets; 1½ lbs chicken breasts, cubed; 1 pint cherry tomatoes; Salt, to taste; Fresh basil (for garnish); 8 oz shredded mozzarella; 5 oz mini fresh mozzarella balls (optional); 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; Chili pepper flakes (for garnish); Salt and pepper, to taste

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Introduction

Tuscan Chicken Broccoli Bake is a flavorful low-carb dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese with a hint of pesto. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep, offering a satisfying balance of protein and vegetables in one comforting bake.

A white rectangular baking dish filled with a broccoli and cheese casserole. The dish has roughly 3 layers: at the bottom, bright green broccoli florets scattered unevenly; the middle layer is a creamy, white cheese sauce coating the broccoli; on top, golden-brown melted cheese forming small crisp patches. Some broccoli tips are slightly darker from roasting, adding contrast. The edges of the dish have light brown baked cheese crust. It sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 heaping cup cottage cheese
1/3 cup pesto
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
4 small broccoli crowns, cut into small florets
1½ lbs chicken breasts, cubed
Salt, to taste
1 pint cherry tomatoes
8 oz shredded mozzarella
5 oz mini fresh mozzarella balls (optional)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish: chili pepper flakes and fresh basil

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, and pesto until smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 3–4 minutes until just fork-tender. Season with salt and pepper, then remove and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Season the cubed chicken with salt and cook for about 5 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
Step 5: Add the sautéed broccoli, cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, and shredded mozzarella to the bowl with the cottage cheese mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. If using, dot the top with mini mozzarella balls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Step 8: Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. Garnish with chili pepper flakes and fresh basil before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh pesto or homemade for the best flavor, but store-bought works well too.
Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier result.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture for extra heat inside the bake.
For a dairy-free version, try using a vegan cheese alternative and skip the cottage cheese.
Roast the broccoli instead of sautéing for a deeper flavor before combining.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish does not freeze well due to the dairy content, so fresh consumption is best.

How to Serve

A white rectangular baking dish filled with a baked broccoli and cheese casserole. The dish has many bright green broccoli florets spread evenly throughout. There are round, golden-brown cheesy pieces scattered on top that have a slightly crispy texture. The cheese has melted and browned in spots, creating a bubbly, toasted look with some herbs sprinkled on the surface. The edges of the dish show browned, cooked cheese that has stuck slightly to the sides. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw and drain the frozen broccoli well to avoid excess moisture. Sauté briefly to remove any remaining liquid before adding to the bake.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It reheats well and keeps its flavor, making it a convenient choice for preparing meals ahead of time.