Creamy Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting and healthy meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole. This dish combines tender chicken, nutty quinoa, and vibrant broccoli in a creamy sauce, making it the perfect dinner for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. It’s a great way to enjoy a wholesome meal without sacrificing flavor, and it’s guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

This Creamy Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole is the ideal combination of comfort food and nutrition. The quinoa provides a great source of protein and fiber, while the chicken adds lean protein. The broccoli gives the dish a pop of green and loads it with vitamins and minerals. All of this is brought together in a rich and creamy sauce that makes each bite irresistible.

Not only is this casserole delicious, but it’s also a canvas for your creativity. You can add other veggies, switch up the cheese, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means easy cleanup—a massive bonus on busy days.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole

To make this casserole, you’ll need:

• 2 cups cooked quinoa
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great for convenience)
• 1 medium head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or a healthier substitute like Greek yogurt or a light cream sauce)
• 1/2 cup milk (use whole milk or a dairy-free alternative)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Quinoa and Chicken

Start by cooking the quinoa according to package instructions. If you’re using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces. This step will save you some time and ensure the casserole comes together quickly, making your cooking experience more efficient and time-saving.

Why it works: The quinoa and chicken are the base of the casserole, providing both protein and texture that will hold up well during baking.

2. Cook the Broccoli

In a medium pot, steam the broccoli until it’s tender but still bright green, about 5 minutes. You can also microwave it for a few minutes to speed up the process. Be careful not to overcook it—this will help retain its color and nutrients.

Why it works: Steaming the broccoli before adding it to the casserole ensures it doesn’t get too mushy while baking.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup (or Greek yogurt, which is a healthier substitute), milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed. The soup or yogurt creates a rich, creamy base for the casserole.

Why it works: This creamy mixture brings all the flavors together and gives the casserole its signature rich texture.

4. Assemble the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and half of the shredded cheese. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir everything together until it’s well coated.

Why it works: The quinoa and chicken absorb the creamy sauce, making each bite flavorful. The broccoli adds crunch and a pop of color.

5. Bake and Top with Cheese

Transfer the casserole mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and Parmesan over the top for a delicious, melty finish.

Why it works: The cheese creates a golden, bubbly top that adds texture and extra flavor to the casserole.

6. Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through. If you like your cheese a little crispier, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Why it works: Baking the casserole ensures the flavors meld together, while the cheese melts into a beautiful, golden topping.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired for a burst of color and flavor.

Why it works: Garnishing with fresh herbs adds a touch of freshness and helps balance the richness of the dish.

Why This Casserole Is So Great

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken and quinoa, and loaded with veggies, this casserole is a balanced and filling meal.
• Comfort Food with a Twist: It’s rich and creamy, but not overly heavy. The quinoa adds a unique texture and nutritional value, while the broccoli provides a healthy crunch.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This casserole stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be reheated for quick meals. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can make a batch ahead of time.
• Customizable: Feel free to add extra veggies, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, or switch up the cheese to your favorite variety. You can even make it dairy-free by using dairy-free cheese and milk substitutes.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a slice of whole-grain bread. You can also serve it with a side of steamed greens like spinach or kale for an extra dose of vitamins.

Final Thoughts

Suppose you’re looking for a healthy, comforting, and easy-to-make meal. In that case, this Creamy Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole is a must-try. It combines protein-packed quinoa, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s a dish that will please everyone at the table, and the best part is that it’s simple to prepare and easy to store for leftovers.

Give this casserole a try next time you need a meal that’s both comforting and good for you—it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!