Name: Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole: A Comforting and Nutritious Meal Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked brown rice; 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped); 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (lightly steamed); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion (chopped); 2 garlic cloves (minced); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

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Looking for the kind of dinner that hugs you from the inside out and also leaves you feeling great? Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole: A Comforting and Nutritious Meal is everything we love about cozy casseroles, but with a fresh and healthy twist. It’s brimming with juicy chicken, tender broccoli, whole grains, and two irresistible cheeses, all brought together with creamy Greek yogurt—no heavy cream required. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just meal prepping for the week, this casserole will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole: A Comforting and Nutritious Meal Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients you probably already have on hand, but each plays a key role in making the casserole delicious, hearty, and wholesome. These staples come together to deliver major flavor, satisfying texture, and beautiful color—all in one pan.

Brown rice: Adds a nutty flavor and wholesome texture, plus fiber to keep you full longer.
Chicken breast: Choose cooked, shredded, or chopped—this high-protein staple keeps the casserole hearty.
Fresh broccoli florets: Just lightly steamed; they add beautiful green color and a boost of nutrients.
Olive oil: A dash is all you need to sauté the onion and add a subtle richness.
Onion: Adds foundational sweetness and savory aroma after sautéing.
Garlic cloves: Minced for bold, robust flavor that ties everything together.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Introduces moisture and brings a savory base, without too much salt.
Plain Greek yogurt: The creamy secret to making this dish indulgent yet lighter and packed with protein.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Delivers that classic gooey, cheesy casserole topping.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, umami punch and helps the casserole brown nicely on top.
Salt: Just the right amount to balance all the flavors.
Black pepper: For a gentle kick of warmth.
Dried thyme: A touch of earthiness that pairs perfectly with chicken and broccoli.
Whole wheat breadcrumbs (optional): For a crunchy, wholesome topping if you love a little texture contrast.

How to Make Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole: A Comforting and Nutritious Meal

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a smidge of olive oil or nonstick spray, ensuring easy serving later and avoiding any sticky situations.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and sauté gently for about three to four minutes, just until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, releasing that irresistible aroma that means something good is cooking.

Step 3: Combine the Main Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, gather your cooked brown rice, chicken breast, lightly steamed broccoli, and the sautéed onion and garlic. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and creamy plain Greek yogurt, then sprinkle in the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Combine well—everything should look thoroughly mixed and evenly distributed, promising lots of flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Spread your combined casserole mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. If you’re feeling a little extra, sprinkle whole wheat breadcrumbs across the top for a delightful golden crunch after baking.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Pop your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden, the casserole is bubbly, and your kitchen smells like pure comfort. Allow it to cool slightly before serving—this helps everything set up for easy scooping.

How to Serve Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole: A Comforting and Nutritious Meal

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a handful of chopped fresh parsley can instantly brighten up your casserole. For an extra pop of color and flavor, try a little cracked black pepper or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving.

Side Dishes

Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole: A Comforting and Nutritious Meal makes a wonderful centerpiece, but if you want to round out your plate, serve it alongside a crisp green salad, roasted sweet potatoes, or even a tangy cucumber-tomato salad for something refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

This casserole shines on a family-style dinner table, but you can also make it party-ready by baking individual portions in small ramekins. Or, spoon it into lettuce cups for a fun and lighter twist. Leftovers? Try stuffing them into a whole-wheat pita with crunchy salad greens for an easy lunch the next day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the casserole has cooled, cover tightly or transfer to airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days, making it ideal for meal prep or quick dinners throughout the week.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, then cover well and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes or so if baking from cold.

Reheating

For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the whole casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until hot throughout. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to revive moisture and keep that creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole: A Comforting and Nutritious Meal?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds even more flavor. Just remove the skin, shred or chop the meat, and use it in place of cooked chicken breast.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the whole wheat breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or simply omit them. Double-check that your chicken broth and cheeses are certified gluten-free if you have a severe allergy.

Can I substitute something else for brown rice?

Definitely. Quinoa or cauliflower rice are both great options—quinoa adds a nutty, protein-packed bite, while cauliflower rice keeps things extra light and low-carb.

What can I use in place of Greek yogurt?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, plain low-fat sour cream or even cottage cheese blended until smooth can provide that same creamy texture with a bit of tang.

How do I make Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole: A Comforting and Nutritious Meal vegetarian?

Simply omit the chicken and add extra broccoli florets, or toss in chickpeas or white beans for plant-based protein. You’ll still enjoy a filling and hearty casserole!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a dish that makes busy days feel a little cozier and healthier at the same time. Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole: A Comforting and Nutritious Meal is a true family favorite that’s as flexible as it is delicious—so go ahead and make it your own. Give it a try, and see just how nourishing comfort food can be!

Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole: A Comforting and Nutritious Meal Recipe

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4.5 from 13 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a comforting and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner. Packed with wholesome ingredients like brown rice, chicken, fresh broccoli, and Greek yogurt, this dish is a delicious way to enjoy a high-protein, low-fat meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Brown Rice:

2 cups cooked brown rice

Chicken:

2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)

Broccoli:

3 cups fresh broccoli florets (lightly steamed)

Seasonings:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion (chopped)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried thyme

Broth and Dairy:

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Topping:

1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, chicken, steamed broccoli, sautéed onion and garlic, chicken broth, Greek yogurt, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until well combined.
Bake: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.