Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Casserole

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Casserole

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The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy quinoa, all smothered in a cheesy sauce, creates a comforting casserole that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner.

With its rich, cheesy goodness and high-protein ingredients, this dish not only satisfies your cravings but also keeps you fueled for hours. Plus, it’s easy to customize by adding your favorite veggies or swapping in different cheese varieties. Serve this dish on a cozy evening or bring it to a potluck for a crowd-pleasing option that everyone will love.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cubed

  • 2 cups broccoli florets

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.

  3. In the same skillet, add broccoli florets and sauté for 2-3 minutes until tender.

  4. In a medium saucepan, cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.

  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chicken, broccoli, chicken broth, heavy cream, and both types of cheese. Stir to combine.

  6. Transfer mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish and spread evenly.

  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

  8. Serve warm and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 6

Why This Casserole is So Popular

Casseroles are a beloved part of family meals because they offer an easy way to feed a crowd with minimal fuss. However, this particular casserole stands out due to its versatility and nutritional benefits. Unlike traditional casseroles, which can be heavy on carbs and fat, this dish uses quinoa as the base, which is a complete protein and an excellent alternative to pasta or rice. Adding chicken boosts the protein content even more, making this casserole both filling and healthy.

The combination of cheddar cheese and heavy cream makes the casserole creamy and indulgent without being overly greasy. The broccoli adds a burst of color and a healthy dose of vitamins and fiber. The real magic happens when these ingredients are blended together with a simple cheese sauce, creating a perfectly balanced dish that the whole family can enjoy.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

Quinoa: Often touted as a superfood, quinoa is a gluten-free grain that is high in protein and fiber. Unlike many other grains, quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. It’s also rich in iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, which are essential for overall health and energy production. By using quinoa as the base of this casserole, you get the benefit of a nutrient-dense grain without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Chicken: This recipe calls for cooked chicken, which provides a high-quality protein source. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and maintaining overall health. It also helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied, making this casserole a great choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. You can use any type of chicken, such as grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or homemade shredded chicken, making this a flexible and easy-to-prepare meal.

Broccoli: Broccoli is a powerhouse vegetable packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. The antioxidants in broccoli also help fight inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, broccoli is high in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes heart health. When paired with the rich and creamy sauce, the broccoli adds a healthy contrast and a burst of green color.

Cheddar Cheese and Heavy Cream: While these ingredients may seem indulgent, they bring richness and flavor to the dish. Cheese is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, both of which are vital for bone health. The heavy cream helps create a smooth and velvety sauce, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the casserole. When used in moderation, these ingredients elevate the dish without overwhelming it.

How to Customize Your Casserole

One of the best things about this Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Quinoa Casserole is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.

  • Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You could also substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep the dish vegetarian.

  • Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it uses quinoa instead of traditional pasta or breadcrumbs. However, be sure to use gluten-free flour for the roux to ensure that the entire dish remains gluten-free.

  • Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheddar cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like almond milk and dairy-free cheese. There are many great dairy-free cheese options available that melt well and provide a similar creamy texture.

  • Add Extra Protein: If you want to make this dish even more filling, consider adding extra protein sources like cooked shrimp, tofu, or even beans. These additions will complement the flavors of the casserole while providing an additional boost of protein.

Meal Prep and Leftovers

This casserole is an excellent option for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It also reheats well, making it the perfect dish for leftovers. Simply heat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through, and you’ll have a quick and delicious meal ready to enjoy.

If you prefer to make it in advance and freeze it, this casserole can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake it in the oven from frozen at 350°F for about 45 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer, you can also freeze the casserole in individual portions for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Quinoa Casserole is a meal in itself, but it can be paired with a variety of sides to complete your dinner. Consider serving it with:

  • A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.

  • Roasted sweet potatoes or a baked potato for an additional boost of nutrients and flavor.

  • Garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Quinoa Casserole is the perfect dish for those who want a comforting, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal. With its combination of protein-packed quinoa, tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce, this casserole is sure to satisfy your cravings without compromising on health. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or looking for a meal prep solution, this recipe is a winner that everyone will enjoy. It’s customizable, versatile, and delicious, making it a must-try for any home cook looking to create a hearty, wholesome meal that everyone will love.

This casserole is not only a tasty and satisfying dish, but it’s also a great way to sneak in more vegetables and wholesome ingredients into your family’s diet. Plus, with its easy preparation and leftovers that taste just as good, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.

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