© Original Recipe By The Sizzle Spot ©
Healthy Broccoli Chicken Casserole Delight 🥦🍗✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a delicious and nutritious Broccoli Chicken Casserole recipe, you’re in the right place! This healthy casserole option is perfect for a comforting family dinner or a meal prep idea. Combining tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy, flavorful sauce, this chicken broccoli bake is a crowd-pleaser that makes over traditional comfort food into something wholesome and satisfying. Let’s explore how to make this delightful dish from scratch, packed with good-for-you ingredients and easy-to-follow steps.
2. Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice for added fiber
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook and shred your chicken breast, or use leftover cooked chicken for convenience. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until just tender, then drain and set aside.
Sautéing Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This will boost the flavor of your casserole.
Making the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, stir in Greek yogurt or sour cream, mixing well with the onions and garlic. Add dried thyme or Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. This will serve as the creamy base for your chicken casserole.
Assembling the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, and the creamy sauce. Mix in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, leaving some cheese aside for topping. For extra fiber, fold in cooked quinoa or brown rice at this stage if using.
Baking
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese and the remaining shredded cheese. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serving
Allow the casserole to cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving. It pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or your favorite roasted vegetables. For a quick and easy dinner, this chicken broccoli bake can be prepared ahead of time and reheated when needed.
4. Storage Tips
This healthy casserole stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for about 2 minutes, or until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
5. Serving Suggestions
Boost your meal by serving this comfort food makeover with a side of whole grain bread or a light green salad. Pair it with a glass of your favorite white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon for a refreshing touch. For family-friendly meals, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
6. FAQs About the Broccoli Chicken Casserole
Can I substitute chicken with turkey or plant-based protein?
Absolutely! Use cooked turkey breast or plant-based options like jackfruit or tofu for a vegetarian version of this chicken broccoli bake.
Is this casserole suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, as long as you ensure the ingredients, like the seasonings and cheeses, are gluten-free. You can also add gluten-free breadcrumbs on top if you prefer a crispy crust.
How long does it take to prepare?
From start to finish, this Broccoli Chicken Casserole takes about 45 minutes, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Equip yourself with essential kitchen tools to make this meal preparation seamless. For instance, a T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set offers excellent nonstick options for sautéing and baking. A quality Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer can help you prepare crispy vegetables or reheat leftovers with ease. If you love blending, the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer is perfect for mixing and preparing ingredients efficiently. For storage and meal prep, enjoy the JoyJolt Airtight Glass Food Storage Set.
8. Conclusion
This Broccoli Chicken Casserole offers a nutritious twist on a classic comfort dish, transforming it into a healthful, wholesome meal that the whole family will love. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and customizable options, it’s a perfect choice for anyone seeking a healthy casserole or a chicken broccoli bake that doesn’t compromise on flavor or comfort. Give it a try today and enjoy a satisfying, homemade dish that hits all the right notes!
Print
Healthy Broccoli Chicken Casserole Delight
A wholesome and creamy broccoli chicken casserole that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a lightened cheese sauce for a satisfying comfort food makeover.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup low-fat shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Steam broccoli until tender and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, milk, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add shredded chicken and broccoli to the sauce, mix well.
- Pour mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- You can substitute with cauliflower for a low-carb version.
- Use leftover cooked chicken for quick assembly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Healthy, High-Protein
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 210 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg