Cozy Creamy Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Quinoa brings unexpected magic to this creamy chicken broccoli casserole that breaks all comfort food rules.

Home cooks searching for a nutritious and satisfying meal will adore this delightful dish.

Packed with protein and vibrant vegetables, this casserole redefines weeknight dinner expectations.

Each forkful delivers a harmonious blend of tender chicken, fluffy quinoa, and crisp broccoli florets.

Melted cheese creates a golden, irresistible crust that promises pure deliciousness.

Nutritious ingredients combine in ways that surprise and delight even picky eaters.

You won’t believe how simple it is to create such a crowd-pleasing masterpiece.

Prepare to savor every comforting, healthy bite of this remarkable casserole.

Why Creamy Chicken Quinoa And Broccoli Casserole Is A Cozy Favorite

• Quick Weeknight Meal: Whip up this delicious casserole in under an hour, perfect for busy families craving a nutritious and satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Nutrient-Packed Powerhouse: Combines protein-rich quinoa, lean chicken, and fiber-loaded broccoli, creating a wholesome one-dish meal that fuels your body with essential nutrients.
• Comfort Food with a Healthy Twist: Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of a classic casserole without the heavy guilt, thanks to the lighter ingredients like Greek yogurt and quinoa.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily swap ingredients or add extra vegetables to suit your taste preferences, making it a flexible recipe for picky eaters or nutrition-conscious families.

What To Gather For Creamy Chicken Quinoa And Broccoli Casserole

Main Ingredients:

• Quinoa: A protein-packed seed that provides a nutritious base for the casserole, offering a light and fluffy texture..
• Chicken: Tender shredded protein that adds heartiness and flavor to the dish, best when cooked and pulled apart..

• Broccoli: Fresh green vegetable that adds nutrition and a slight crunch, can be fresh or frozen..
• Onion: Aromatic base that provides depth of flavor and natural sweetness to the casserole..
• Garlic: Adds robust flavor and enhances the overall taste profile of the dish..

• Chicken Broth: Liquid that helps cook quinoa and adds rich flavor, choose low-sodium for better control of saltiness..
• Milk: Creamy liquid that creates a smooth sauce base, whole milk works best for richness..
• Greek Yogurt: Adds tanginess and creaminess to the sauce, provides extra protein and smooth texture..
• Butter: Creates a rich base for the roux, helps thicken the sauce..
• Cheese: Melty topping that adds richness and a golden-brown crust, use a good melting variety..

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing overall flavor..
• Thyme: Herbaceous note that complements chicken and adds depth..
• Paprika: Provides a warm, slightly smoky undertone..
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle heat and extra flavor dimension..
• Flour: Thickening agent for creating a smooth, creamy sauce..
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing vegetables, adds.

Steps To Make Creamy Chicken Quinoa And Broccoli Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375F (190C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light coating of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

In a medium pot, combine quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat. Cover and let it simmer until the quinoa is fluffy and has soaked up all the liquid, about 15 minutes. Set aside when done.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

• Chopped onions
• Minced garlic

Sauté until the onions turn soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli

Introduce broccoli to the skillet. If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain first. Cook until the broccoli starts to soften but remains vibrant green, around 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Protein and Grains

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Dried thyme
• Paprika
• Red pepper flakes

Mix everything thoroughly.

Step 6: Create the Creamy Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour and whisk constantly for about a minute to create a smooth base.

Step 7: Build the Sauce

Slowly pour in milk, whisking continuously. Cook until the sauce thickens and becomes velvety, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 8: Finish the Sauce

• Greek yogurt
• Shredded cheese

Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 9: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and quinoa mixture. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 10: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for a golden, crispy finish.

Step 11: Bake and Serve

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until it’s bubbling and the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Enjoy your comforting and nutritious meal!

Tips For A Perfect Creamy Chicken Quinoa And Broccoli Casserole

• Boost Quinoa's Flavor: Toast quinoa in a dry skillet before cooking to enhance its nutty taste and add depth to the casserole's overall flavor profile.
• Customize Protein Options: Swap shredded chicken with turkey, tofu, or plant-based alternatives to make the dish more versatile for different dietary preferences.
• Prevent Watery Vegetables: Pat broccoli dry or slightly precook to remove excess moisture, ensuring a creamy and thick casserole texture without becoming runny.
• Enhance Cheese Meltability: Let cheese come to room temperature before adding to the sauce, helping it melt smoothly and distribute evenly throughout the dish.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, storing it covered in the refrigerator and baking just before serving for a convenient meal prep option.

How To Store Creamy Chicken Quinoa And Broccoli Casserole The Right Way

• Refrigerate leftover casserole in an airtight container within two hours of cooking.
• Store the dish for up to 4 days in the refrigerator, keeping it sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
• Freeze individual portions or the entire casserole in freezer-safe containers for maximum convenience.
• When freezing, use within 3 months for the best texture and flavor.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the creamy consistency.
• Warm the casserole in the oven at 350F (175C) for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
• Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the quinoa and chicken tough and change the sauce's smooth texture.
• Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C) when reheating to ensure food safety.

Best Side Ideas For Creamy Chicken Quinoa And Broccoli Casserole

• Craft Wine Harmony: Pair this creamy casserole with a crisp Chardonnay or light Pinot Grigio. These white wines balance the dish's richness with their refreshing acidity and complement the chicken's mild flavor.
• Brew Perfect Beer Match: Select a wheat beer or mild pale ale to cut through the casserole's creamy texture. The beer's light carbonation and subtle hoppy notes will enhance the dish's complex flavors.
• Pop Fresh Salad Sidekick: Serve a zesty mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette. The bright, tangy dressing will contrast the casserole's creamy richness and add a fresh counterpoint to the hearty main dish.
• Spark Bread Companion: Offer crusty sourdough or herbed focaccia bread on the side. These rustic breads will soak up the delicious sauce and provide a delightful textural contrast to the soft casserole.

Tasty Ways To Switch Up Creamy Chicken Quinoa And Broccoli Casserole

• Mediterranean Mix: Swap thyme for oregano and add sun-dried tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired flavor profile that brings vibrant Mediterranean notes to the classic casserole.
• Spicy Southwest Spin: Replace red pepper flakes with diced green chiles, add ground cumin, and top with pepper jack cheese to create a zesty southwestern-style version with bold, warm spices.
• Mushroom Forest Fusion: Incorporate sautéed cremini or shiitake mushrooms, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley for an earthy, woodland-inspired variation that adds depth and umami flavor.
• Protein Power Boost: Mix in cooked black beans or lentils to increase protein content, use smoked paprika for extra complexity, and add diced bell peppers for additional nutrition and color contrast.

Questions Answered On Creamy Chicken Quinoa And Broccoli Casserole

• Is quinoa a good protein source for this casserole?

Yes! Quinoa is a complete protein that contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent nutritional base for this casserole. It provides about 8 grams of protein per cup, helping to make the dish more filling and nutritious.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use a gluten-free flour alternative like almond flour or cornstarch when preparing the sauce, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The recipe is easily adaptable for those with gluten sensitivities.

• How healthy is this chicken quinoa casserole?

This casserole is quite nutritious! It combines lean protein from chicken, complex carbohydrates from quinoa, and vitamins from broccoli. The Greek yogurt adds protein and probiotics, while using moderate amounts of cheese keeps the dish balanced and healthier than traditional cream-based casseroles.

• What if I don't have fresh broccoli?

No problem! Frozen broccoli works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the skillet to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

Creamy Chicken Quinoa And Broccoli Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comfort meets nutrition in this creamy chicken quinoa and broccoli casserole, blending hearty proteins with wholesome grains. Packed with flavor and nourishment, you’ll savor each comforting bite of this satisfying one-dish meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
• 112 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

Grains and Vegetables:

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
• 3 cups small broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquid and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 112 cups milk (2% or whole)
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating it to 375F (190C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Cook quinoa in chicken broth until tender and fluffy, allowing the grains to absorb all liquid completely.
3. Sauté diced onions in olive oil until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook briefly to release aromatic flavors.
4. Introduce broccoli florets to the skillet, cooking until they soften and turn bright green, ensuring even tenderness.
5. Combine cooked quinoa with shredded chicken in the skillet, seasoning generously with thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
6. Create a creamy sauce by melting butter and whisking in flour, cooking briefly to eliminate raw flour taste.
7. Gradually incorporate milk into the butter-flour mixture, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
8. Remove sauce from heat and fold in Greek yogurt and a portion of shredded cheese, creating a rich, velvety consistency.
9. Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken and quinoa mixture, stirring to ensure even distribution of flavors.
10. Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking dish, topping with remaining cheese for a golden, melted crust.
11. Bake uncovered until the casserole is heated through and the cheese turns golden brown and bubbly, allowing flavors to meld together.
12. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving, letting the sauce settle and flavors intensify.

Notes

• Swap frozen broccoli for fresh to enhance the texture and prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
• Use leftover rotisserie chicken or quickly poach chicken breasts for a convenient protein boost.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or gruyere to customize the flavor profile.
• For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend when making the sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 520 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg