Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole

A comforting, protein-packed casserole featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy cheese, and wholesome quinoa. This one-dish meal brings together nutritious ingredients in a creamy, cheesy bake that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole is a nutritious twist on traditional casseroles. With quinoa as the base, it offers a gluten-free, high-protein grain that pairs wonderfully with lean chicken and crisp broccoli. The creamy cheese sauce brings it all together, making it a family favorite that feels indulgent without sacrificing health benefits. It’s easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and ideal for both quick dinners and leftover lunches.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• uncooked quinoa
• low-sodium chicken broth
• boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• broccoli florets
• shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• whole milk
• all-purpose flour
• butter
• small onion, finely chopped
• garlic, minced
• poultry seasoning
• salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Sauté aromatics: In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Make cheese sauce: Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened. Add poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, and shredded cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
4. Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, raw chicken pieces, broccoli florets, and cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly.
5. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Top with extra shredded cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit chicken and add mushrooms or chickpeas.
• Spicy twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
• Extra creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce.
• Different cheese: Try gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
• Add grains: Mix in brown rice or farro if you don’t have quinoa.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
For longer storage, freeze the casserole in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What type of quinoa should I use?

You can use white, red, or tri-color quinoa. All work well in this casserole.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using cooked rotisserie chicken can save time. Just stir it in with the other ingredients before baking.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just thaw and drain it first to avoid excess moisture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use a gluten-free flour substitute, the dish can be made gluten-free.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole a day ahead, refrigerate it, and bake when ready.

How do I make it creamier?

Add a bit of cream cheese or increase the amount of cheese in the sauce.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Peas, carrots, or spinach are great additions.

What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a side salad or a light soup.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and bake in a larger casserole dish.

How do I prevent it from drying out?

Covering with foil for most of the baking time helps retain moisture.

Conclusion

This Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole offers a balanced blend of protein, vegetables, and grains in a warm, satisfying dish. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing meals for the week, this casserole is a delicious and practical solution. With easy substitutions and options for storage, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.

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