Irresistible Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole

The moment you take a whiff of Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole, your taste buds will dance like they’ve just won the lottery. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that harmonize perfectly, creating a warm embrace for your belly. perfectly grilled chicken legs Imagine tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese all snug in a cozy quinoa blanket. It’s the kind of comfort food that makes you want to curl up on the couch, wear your comfiest pajamas, and binge-watch your favorite series while savoring every bite.

And let’s be real—who doesn’t love a dish that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside? I remember the first time I made this gem for my family; we had a surprise snowstorm that trapped us indoors. As the snow piled up outside, I whipped this casserole up in my kitchen, filling the air with mouthwatering aromas. My kids peeked around the corner, their little noses twitching like hounds on a scent trail. We dug in together, laughter echoing as we fought over the last cheesy bite. This dish is perfect for those chilly evenings or when you simply want to impress your dinner guests without breaking a sweat.

Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts depending on how many you’re serving; they stay juicy and tender when baked.
• Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets for vibrant color and crunch; frozen works too if you’re in a pinch.
• Quinoa: This protein-packed grain serves as the nutty base—rinse it before cooking to remove its natural coating.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for a bold flavor; it melts beautifully into the casserole.
• Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; substitute with almond milk if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder infuses an aromatic punch without any chopping required.

For the Sauce:

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding depth of flavor.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil keeps everything moist while adding healthy fat to your meal.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, grab your trusty baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks—the last thing you want is a cheesy disaster!

Step 2: Cook Your Quinoa

Rinse one cup of quinoa under cold water until it runs clear. Combine it with two cups of chicken broth in a pot over medium heat. Bring it to a boil then reduce heat to low and cover—let it simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy.

Step 3: Prepare Your Chicken

While quinoa cooks, season those beautiful chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a skillet over medium heat with olive oil, sear them for about five minutes on each side until golden brown but not fully cooked—don’t worry; they’ll finish baking later.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped broccoli (steamed if you prefer), shredded cheese (save some for topping!), and diced chicken. Pour in one cup of milk and mix until everything looks like it’s having a party.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Transfer your mixture into that prepared baking dish and top with remaining cheese because more cheese is always better! Cover tightly with foil and bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes.

Step 6: Uncover & Serve

Remove the foil for the last ten minutes to let that cheese get bubbly and golden brown. Once it’s out of the oven and cooled slightly (you don’t want to burn your tongue), serve hot! You can garnish it with fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy or just dig right in—it’s that good!

There you have it—a delightful Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole that will surely become your go-to comfort food recipe! Enjoy every cheesy bite while basking in the compliments from friends and family! For more inspiration, check out this Amish country casserole recipe recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking quinoa and steaming broccoli together. While they’re doing their thing, sauté chicken until golden brown. Mix everything in a baking dish with cheese and sauce for a glorious oven bake.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out quinoa for rice or add extra veggies like bell peppers or carrots. Spice it up with different seasonings or toss in some nuts for crunch. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Sometimes I whip up this Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole for game night, and everyone goes wild! It’s always a hit, and I love seeing empty plates all around the table.

FAQs:

What is Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole?

Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole is a delicious one-dish meal that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese with nutritious quinoa. This casserole offers a perfect balance of protein and vegetables while being easy to prepare. delicious smoked casserole It’s ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, allowing flavors to meld beautifully as it bakes. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for families. For more inspiration, check out this Philly cheesesteak pasta recipe.

How do I make Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole?

To prepare Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole, cook quinoa according to package instructions while sautéing diced chicken until golden brown. Add steamed broccoli and mix everything in a baking dish with cheese and seasonings. Pour in broth or milk for creaminess and bake until bubbly. This straightforward process ensures you create a comforting meal without much fuss, perfect for any cooking skill level.

Can I customize my Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole?

Absolutely! You can customize your Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole by adding various vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor. Additionally, if you prefer different proteins, feel free to substitute the chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. savory turkey bacon sliders Experimenting with different cheeses can also enhance the dish’s taste profile, making it uniquely yours while still maintaining its core essence.

How long can I store Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole?

You can store leftover Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This makes it an excellent make-ahead meal that will save you time during busy days.

Conclusion for Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole:

In summary, Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole is a nutritious and satisfying meal that brings together simple ingredients into a delightful dish. By incorporating lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains like quinoa, this casserole supports healthy eating habits without sacrificing flavor. flavorful black bean burgers Whether you are preparing a family dinner or planning meals ahead of time, this recipe fits seamlessly into any lifestyle while offering versatility and comfort in every bite.

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Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole

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• Author: Chloe
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole is a comforting one-dish meal that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese enveloped in fluffy quinoa. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this hearty casserole is both nutritious and satisfying. Its rich flavors and delightful textures make it an instant favorite, ensuring that everyone at the table will be asking for seconds!

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Ingredients

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• 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup uncooked quinoa
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Rinse quinoa under cold water, then combine with chicken broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear in olive oil over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown but not fully cooked.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped broccoli (steamed if desired), diced chicken, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir in milk until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, top with remaining cheese, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole (about 290g)
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 90mg