This nutritious chicken broccoli quinoa casserole is a wholesome dish packed with protein and fiber. It’s an excellent option for a family meal, combining tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and hearty quinoa in a creamy sauce.
The recipe is simple to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices. It’s a great way to enjoy a balanced meal in one dish.
Ingredients for the Casserole
This chicken broccoli quinoa casserole is a delightful blend of wholesome ingredients.
At its core, you’ll need quinoa, which serves as the nutritious base, providing a fluffy texture and a good source of protein.
Complementing the quinoa are tender pieces of diced chicken and vibrant broccoli florets, both packed with nutrients.
A creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt or sour cream adds richness, while shredded cheddar cheese brings a deliciously melty topping.
Seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and optional paprika enhance the flavor profile, making each bite satisfying.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, breadcrumbs can be sprinkled on top before baking.
Preparation Steps
Preparing this casserole is straightforward and can be accomplished in a few simple steps.
First, cook the quinoa in chicken broth or water until it becomes fluffy.
While the quinoa cooks, steam the broccoli until tender, ensuring it retains its vibrant green color.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced chicken, steamed broccoli, Greek yogurt, and half of the cheddar cheese.
Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Baking the Casserole
Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to assemble the casserole.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Spread it evenly and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top for added texture.
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
After baking, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
This dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep, as it can easily serve six people.
Pair it with a fresh salad on the side to complete the meal, adding a refreshing crunch to balance the creamy casserole.
Nutritional Benefits
This casserole not only satisfies the taste buds but also offers numerous health benefits.
With a balanced combination of protein from chicken and quinoa, along with fiber from broccoli, it supports a healthy diet.
Each serving provides approximately 320 calories, making it a filling yet nutritious option for any meal.
The inclusion of Greek yogurt adds probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.
Customization Options
One of the great aspects of this casserole is its versatility.
You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to enhance the nutritional profile.
Spices can also be adjusted to suit your taste preferences, allowing for a unique twist each time you prepare it.
Experimenting with different types of cheese can also create new flavor combinations, making this dish a staple in your kitchen.
Easy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Casserole
This casserole features cooked quinoa mixed with diced chicken, steamed broccoli, and a creamy sauce, baked until bubbly and golden. The recipe takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: In a saucepan, combine quinoa and chicken broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until quinoa is fluffy.
- Prepare Casserole Mixture: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced chicken, steamed broccoli, Greek yogurt, half of the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Mix well.
- Assemble Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly and top with remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if desired.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your healthy chicken broccoli quinoa casserole!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g