Description
This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a delicious and nutritious bake featuring lean chicken breast, tender broccoli, whole grains, and creamy Greek yogurt. It’s a wholesome, low-fat, high-protein meal perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
- 3 cups broccoli florets (lightly steamed or blanched)
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup low-fat plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Topping
- ½ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (optional topping)
- Cooking spray (for greasing and topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli florets, cooked brown rice or quinoa, sautéed onion and garlic, Greek yogurt, chicken broth, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until evenly incorporated.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle whole wheat breadcrumbs over the top and lightly spray with cooking spray to add crispiness.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the casserole to set.
Notes
- This recipe is a great way to use leftover chicken.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt with light sour cream or cottage cheese for a different creamy texture.
- Add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to increase fiber and nutritional content.
