Healthy Broccoli Chicken Casserole – Easy and Delicious Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Healthy Broccoli Chicken Casserole is the perfect weeknight dinner. It’s hearty, nutritious, and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy families. The tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy sauce provide a satisfying and flavorful meal, while keeping the calories in check with Greek yogurt and brown rice. This casserole is packed with lean protein, vitamins, and fiber, making it a balanced dish that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 large chicken breasts, cooked and diced
4 cups broccoli florets, steamed
2 cups cooked brown rice
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Prepare Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, chicken broth, half of the shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until well blended.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked brown rice, and sautéed onions and garlic. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for more variety and nutrition.
Cheese Options: If you prefer a different flavor, use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses instead of cheddar.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicier twist.
Low-Carb Option: Substitute brown rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it when ready to serve.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely. Store the leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or even spinach for more variety in the casserole.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses instead of cheddar, depending on your preference.
Can I use cauliflower rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, cauliflower rice can be substituted for brown rice to make the casserole lower in carbs. Just be aware that cauliflower rice will release more moisture, so you might want to adjust the baking time slightly.
How can I make the casserole more flavorful?
Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning to the sauce for more depth of flavor. You can also add garlic powder or onion powder to the rice mixture for added richness.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this casserole! It’s a great time-saver and still gives you that tender, flavorful chicken.
How do I prevent the casserole from being too dry?
Make sure to not overbake the casserole, and ensure you have enough sauce or moisture from the broth. You can add a bit more chicken broth or Greek yogurt if you find the mixture too thick before baking.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely. You can also use gluten-free pasta if desired.

Conclusion

This Healthy Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a nutritious, comforting meal that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Packed with lean protein, fiber, and flavor, it’s a dish that everyone will love. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables, it’s a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Enjoy it as-is or make it your own with a few simple adjustments to suit your taste!

Healthy Broccoli Chicken Casserole – Easy and Delicious Recipe