Creamy Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole
This Creamy Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole is made from scratch with healthy ingredients.
This Creamy Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole is made from scratch with healthy ingredients.
- 1 cup milk (i used 2%)
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 2 cups water divided
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa rinsed
- 2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup cooked crumbled bacon (optional... sort of)
- 1/4 cup shredded gruyere cheese (any kind will work)
- 2 teaspoons seasoning (like emeril's essence or any basic ble
- Carbohydrate 39.9397416666667 g
- Cholesterol 43.8472624333333 mg
- Fat 3.39073256466667 g
- Fiber 3.82458329041799 g
- Protein 25.1222880388333 g
- Saturated Fat 0.539019136833333 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (330g)
- Sodium 254.048340086005 mg
- Sugar 36.1151583762487 g
- Trans Fat 0.5518908035 g
- Calories 291 calories
Step-by-step
- Sauce: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and generously grease a 9x13 baking dish.
- Bring the chicken broth and 1/2 cup milk to a low boil in a saucepan.
- Whisk the other 1/2 cup milk with the poultry seasoning and flour; add the mixture to the boiling liquid and whisk until a smooth creamy sauce forms.
- Assembly: In a large bowl, mix the sauce, one cup water, quinoa, and bacon and stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and lay them over the top of the quinoa mixture.
- Sprinkle with seasoning.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Broccoli: While the casserole is in the oven, place the broccoli in boiling water for 1 minute until it turns bright green and then run under cold water. Set aside.
- Bake: Remove the casserole from the oven, check the mixture by stirring it around in the pan, and if needed, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- When the quinoa and chicken are cooked and the sauce is thickened, add the broccoli and a little bit of water (up to one cup) until the consistency is creamy and smooth.
- Top with the cheese and bake for 5 minutes, or just long enough to melt the cheese.
A Weeknight Wonder: Creamy Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the house running smoothly, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are both nutritious and quick to prepare. This Creamy Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole is a perfect example. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, and it’s ready in under an hour—perfect for a busy weeknight.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The creamy sauce is made from scratch with just a few basic ingredients, and it comes together in minutes. I love the fact that I can use whatever cheese I have on hand – Gruyere adds a lovely sharpness, but cheddar or even a simple mozzarella would work perfectly. The quinoa adds a hearty texture and a boost of protein, while the broccoli provides a healthy dose of vitamins. The bacon (optional, but highly recommended!) adds a smoky salty crunch that elevates the dish to a whole new level. I usually cook a large batch of bacon on the weekend and keep it in the fridge for quick additions to dishes like this during the week. It's a great time saver!
This casserole is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables, such as diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers, to customize it to your liking. You can also easily swap out the chicken for another protein, such as turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless! The best part is that this dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping. I often make a double batch on Sunday to have leftovers for lunch throughout the week. It’s a true lifesaver when I’m short on time.
Beyond the Recipe: This casserole isn't just about convenience; it’s about nourishing my family with wholesome food without sacrificing flavor or time. In our busy lives, it's easy to fall back on quick, processed meals, but taking the time to prepare a nutritious dish like this is an investment in our health and well-being. It’s a reminder that even amidst the chaos of everyday life, we can still prioritize healthy eating. This dish is not only delicious but also a source of pride, knowing I’ve created a satisfying and nutritious meal for my family from scratch.
The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked quinoa and broccoli creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more. The quinoa provides a subtle nutty flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the sauce and the savory chicken. The broccoli adds a vibrant green color and a pleasant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softer textures of the other ingredients. It’s a well-balanced dish that's satisfying and comforting, perfect for a family dinner or a potluck.
This recipe has become a staple in our home, and I’m confident it will become one of your favorites, too. It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a delicious and healthy meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy recipe that's both nutritious and flavorful, give this Creamy Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole a try. You won't regret it!
