Looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that the whole family will love? Dive into this mouthwatering Broccoli Quinoa Casserole with Chicken and Cheddar! Packed with protein, vibrant veggies, and creamy cheese, this dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a wholesome choice for your dinner table. Whether you're a busy parent or a meal prep enthusiast, this easy-to-follow recipe will have you savoring every bite in just 45 minutes. Trust us, once you try this delightful casserole, it will become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Steam the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, shredded chicken, and steamed broccoli florets. Mix gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a creamy sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the quinoa, chicken, and broccoli mixture. Stir to ensure all ingredients are well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, covering the entire surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, cook the quinoa and chicken in advance. You can even steam the broccoli a day before and store everything in the fridge until you're ready to assemble the casserole.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or carrots for extra color and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Experiment with different types of cheese! While cheddar is a classic choice, try mixing in mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives to create a dairy-free version of this casserole without sacrificing flavor.
- Serve with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving to add a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
- Leftover Magic: This casserole makes excellent leftovers! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and simply reheat in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 75mg
