Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's as nutritious as it is delicious? Say hello to the Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Casserole! This hearty, comforting recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and protein-packed quinoa, all smothered in creamy cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this casserole is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a wholesome meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this easy-to-make dish that’s bursting with flavor and goodness—your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 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 bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, shredded chicken, and steamed broccoli florets.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth and milk. Season with salt and pepper to create a light sauce.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the quinoa, chicken, and broccoli. Gently stir to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the quinoa and cook the chicken in advance. This way, you can whip up the casserole in just 15 minutes when you're ready to bake.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, try mixing in other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different twist.
- Make it Creamier: For a richer sauce, consider adding a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream to the liquid mixture before pouring it over the casserole.
- Leftover Magic: This casserole makes for great leftovers! Simply store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for a quick meal.
- Garnish for Freshness: Top your casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg
