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Chicken Broccoli Casserole Simple and Comforting Meal

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Chicken broccoli casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It's easy, tasty, and the whole family will love it. In this post, I'll show you how to make a simple yet satisfying dish with just a few ingredients. You can whip it up in no time, and it’s great for leftovers too! Let’s get cooking and bring warmth to your dinner table!

When making Chicken Broccoli Casserole, you need simple and fresh ingredients. Each one plays a key role in the dish's flavor and texture. Here’s what you will need: - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen) - 1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice) - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or homemade equivalent) - ½ cup Greek yogurt - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - ½ teaspoon black pepper - ½ teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon paprika - ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping) - 2 tablespoons olive oil These ingredients come together to create a warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal. The chicken adds protein, while the broccoli gives vitamins and color. Quinoa or rice makes it filling, and the cheese binds it all in a creamy mix. You can use frozen broccoli for ease, or fresh for a crunchier bite. The cream of mushroom soup adds depth, and Greek yogurt keeps it moist. Garlic and onion powders boost the flavor without extra work. Seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika gives it a nice kick. If you want a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil. This combination makes for a cozy meal that everyone will love. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This heat makes the casserole cook just right. If you have fresh broccoli, steam the florets in boiling water. Do this for 2-3 minutes. You want them a bit tender but not mushy. Drain the broccoli. If you use frozen broccoli, just microwave it until it thaws. In a big bowl, add the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cooked quinoa. Next, toss in the shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and Greek yogurt. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika. Mix everything well. You want each bite to have all the flavors. Take a 9x13 inch casserole dish and lightly grease it with olive oil. Pour your mixed ingredients into this dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks well. For a crunchy top, you can add breadcrumbs. Mix them with a bit of olive oil, then sprinkle them over the casserole. This makes a nice texture contrast. Now, put the casserole in your preheated oven. Bake it for 25-30 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown. When the casserole is done, let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps prevent burns. Then, serve it warm and enjoy every bite! To get the best texture in your casserole, cook the chicken well. Shredded chicken should be moist, not dry. Use fresh broccoli for crunch. If you choose frozen, don’t overcook it. Steaming fresh broccoli lightly keeps it tender. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This creates a nice crust on top. You can swap ingredients based on what you have. Use cooked rice instead of quinoa if needed. Cream of mushroom soup can be replaced with cream of chicken soup. Greek yogurt can be changed to sour cream for a different taste. If you want more flavor, try adding some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. You can prepare this casserole in advance. Mix all the ingredients and put them in the dish. Cover it well and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven. This saves time on busy days and makes dinner easy. Pro Tips Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds flavor! Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile. Add More Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to the mix. Make it Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you're ready to serve! {{image_2}} You can make this dish meat-free. Replace the chicken with more veggies. Try using mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also add chickpeas for protein. This mix will keep the dish filling and tasty. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor. If you need a gluten-free meal, swap the breadcrumbs. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them entirely. Make sure the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free too. You can find many brands that offer this option. Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, so you’re already on the right path. Cheddar cheese is a favorite, but you can change that. Try mozzarella for a stretchier texture. For a bolder taste, use pepper jack or gouda. You can even mix different cheeses to get a unique flavor. Just make sure to keep the cheese amount the same for the right creaminess. After you enjoy your Chicken Broccoli Casserole, store any leftovers. Place them in an airtight container. This helps keep the dish fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a good idea. To freeze the casserole, let it cool first. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions into a freezer bag. Remove as much air as you can. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, you have a couple of options. You can use the microwave or the oven. For the microwave, place a portion on a safe plate. Heat it for one to two minutes or until hot. Stir halfway through for even heating. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps it moist while warming. Enjoy your meal again! You should not use raw chicken. Raw chicken needs to cook fully for safety. Using cooked chicken makes this dish quick and easy. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. You can store the casserole in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to cover it well. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. It can stay frozen for up to three months. This casserole pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread. You might also enjoy it with steamed rice or quinoa. These sides complement the rich flavors of the dish. Yes, you can make this casserole in advance. Prepare the dish and cover it. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready, just pop it in the oven! This blog covered a simple yet tasty chicken broccoli casserole. You learned about the necessary ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for the best results. I shared ways to customize the dish and how to store it properly. With these insights, you can whip up a delicious meal that suits your taste. I hope you feel ready to create this casserole, impressing friends and family with your skills. Enjoy every bite!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting and Delicious: This casserole combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and nutritious broccoli, making it a hearty meal that satisfies the whole family.
  2. Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade without the hassle.
  3. Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family's preferences, whether it's using different veggies or types of cheese.
  4. One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in a single dish, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones.

Ingredients

When making Chicken Broccoli Casserole, you need simple and fresh ingredients. Each one plays a key role in the dish's flavor and texture. Here’s what you will need:

  1. 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  2. 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  3. 1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice)
  4. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  5. 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or homemade equivalent)
  6. ½ cup Greek yogurt
  7. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  8. 1 teaspoon onion powder
  9. ½ teaspoon black pepper
  10. ½ teaspoon salt
  11. ½ teaspoon paprika
  12. ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
  13. 2 tablespoons olive oil

These ingredients come together to create a warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal. The chicken adds protein, while the broccoli gives vitamins and color. Quinoa or rice makes it filling, and the cheese binds it all in a creamy mix. You can use frozen broccoli for ease, or fresh for a crunchier bite. The cream of mushroom soup adds depth, and Greek yogurt keeps it moist. Garlic and onion powders boost the flavor without extra work. Seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika gives it a nice kick. If you want a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil. This combination makes for a cozy meal that everyone will love.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This heat makes the casserole cook just right.

Prepare the Broccoli

If you have fresh broccoli, steam the florets in boiling water. Do this for 2-3 minutes. You want them a bit tender but not mushy. Drain the broccoli. If you use frozen broccoli, just microwave it until it thaws.

Mix the Ingredients

In a big bowl, add the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cooked quinoa. Next, toss in the shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and Greek yogurt. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika. Mix everything well. You want each bite to have all the flavors.

Transfer to Casserole Dish

Take a 9x13 inch casserole dish and lightly grease it with olive oil. Pour your mixed ingredients into this dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks well.

Add Topping (Optional)

For a crunchy top, you can add breadcrumbs. Mix them with a bit of olive oil, then sprinkle them over the casserole. This makes a nice texture contrast.

Bake the Casserole

Now, put the casserole in your preheated oven. Bake it for 25-30 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

When the casserole is done, let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps prevent burns. Then, serve it warm and enjoy every bite!

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Best Texture

To get the best texture in your casserole, cook the chicken well. Shredded chicken should be moist, not dry. Use fresh broccoli for crunch. If you choose frozen, don’t overcook it. Steaming fresh broccoli lightly keeps it tender. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This creates a nice crust on top.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ingredients based on what you have. Use cooked rice instead of quinoa if needed. Cream of mushroom soup can be replaced with cream of chicken soup. Greek yogurt can be changed to sour cream for a different taste. If you want more flavor, try adding some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.

Making Ahead of Time

You can prepare this casserole in advance. Mix all the ingredients and put them in the dish. Cover it well and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven. This saves time on busy days and makes dinner easy.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds flavor!
  2. Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
  3. Add More Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to the mix.
  4. Make it Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you're ready to serve!

Variations

Vegetarian Version

You can make this dish meat-free. Replace the chicken with more veggies. Try using mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also add chickpeas for protein. This mix will keep the dish filling and tasty. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.

Gluten-Free Option

If you need a gluten-free meal, swap the breadcrumbs. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them entirely. Make sure the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free too. You can find many brands that offer this option. Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, so you’re already on the right path.

Different Cheese Choices

Cheddar cheese is a favorite, but you can change that. Try mozzarella for a stretchier texture. For a bolder taste, use pepper jack or gouda. You can even mix different cheeses to get a unique flavor. Just make sure to keep the cheese amount the same for the right creaminess.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

After you enjoy your Chicken Broccoli Casserole, store any leftovers. Place them in an airtight container. This helps keep the dish fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a good idea.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze the casserole, let it cool first. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions into a freezer bag. Remove as much air as you can. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, you have a couple of options. You can use the microwave or the oven. For the microwave, place a portion on a safe plate. Heat it for one to two minutes or until hot. Stir halfway through for even heating. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps it moist while warming. Enjoy your meal again!

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken?

You should not use raw chicken. Raw chicken needs to cook fully for safety. Using cooked chicken makes this dish quick and easy. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.

How long can I store the casserole?

You can store the casserole in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to cover it well. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. It can stay frozen for up to three months.

What can I serve with Chicken Broccoli Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread. You might also enjoy it with steamed rice or quinoa. These sides complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Can I make this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can make this casserole in advance. Prepare the dish and cover it. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready, just pop it in the oven!

This blog covered a simple yet tasty chicken broccoli casserole. You learned about the necessary ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for the best results. I shared ways to customize the dish and how to store it properly. With these insights, you can whip up a delicious meal that suits your taste. I hope you feel ready to create this casserole, impressing friends and family with your skills. Enjoy every bit

When making Chicken Broccoli Casserole, you need simple and fresh ingredients. Each one plays a key role in the dish's flavor and texture. Here’s what you will need: - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen) - 1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice) - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or homemade equivalent) - ½ cup Greek yogurt - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - ½ teaspoon black pepper - ½ teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon paprika - ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping) - 2 tablespoons olive oil These ingredients come together to create a warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal. The chicken adds protein, while the broccoli gives vitamins and color. Quinoa or rice makes it filling, and the cheese binds it all in a creamy mix. You can use frozen broccoli for ease, or fresh for a crunchier bite. The cream of mushroom soup adds depth, and Greek yogurt keeps it moist. Garlic and onion powders boost the flavor without extra work. Seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika gives it a nice kick. If you want a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil. This combination makes for a cozy meal that everyone will love. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This heat makes the casserole cook just right. If you have fresh broccoli, steam the florets in boiling water. Do this for 2-3 minutes. You want them a bit tender but not mushy. Drain the broccoli. If you use frozen broccoli, just microwave it until it thaws. In a big bowl, add the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cooked quinoa. Next, toss in the shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and Greek yogurt. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika. Mix everything well. You want each bite to have all the flavors. Take a 9x13 inch casserole dish and lightly grease it with olive oil. Pour your mixed ingredients into this dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks well. For a crunchy top, you can add breadcrumbs. Mix them with a bit of olive oil, then sprinkle them over the casserole. This makes a nice texture contrast. Now, put the casserole in your preheated oven. Bake it for 25-30 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown. When the casserole is done, let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps prevent burns. Then, serve it warm and enjoy every bite! To get the best texture in your casserole, cook the chicken well. Shredded chicken should be moist, not dry. Use fresh broccoli for crunch. If you choose frozen, don’t overcook it. Steaming fresh broccoli lightly keeps it tender. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This creates a nice crust on top. You can swap ingredients based on what you have. Use cooked rice instead of quinoa if needed. Cream of mushroom soup can be replaced with cream of chicken soup. Greek yogurt can be changed to sour cream for a different taste. If you want more flavor, try adding some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. You can prepare this casserole in advance. Mix all the ingredients and put them in the dish. Cover it well and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven. This saves time on busy days and makes dinner easy. Pro Tips Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds flavor! Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile. Add More Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to the mix. Make it Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you're ready to serve! {{image_2}} You can make this dish meat-free. Replace the chicken with more veggies. Try using mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also add chickpeas for protein. This mix will keep the dish filling and tasty. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor. If you need a gluten-free meal, swap the breadcrumbs. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them entirely. Make sure the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free too. You can find many brands that offer this option. Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, so you’re already on the right path. Cheddar cheese is a favorite, but you can change that. Try mozzarella for a stretchier texture. For a bolder taste, use pepper jack or gouda. You can even mix different cheeses to get a unique flavor. Just make sure to keep the cheese amount the same for the right creaminess. After you enjoy your Chicken Broccoli Casserole, store any leftovers. Place them in an airtight container. This helps keep the dish fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a good idea. To freeze the casserole, let it cool first. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions into a freezer bag. Remove as much air as you can. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, you have a couple of options. You can use the microwave or the oven. For the microwave, place a portion on a safe plate. Heat it for one to two minutes or until hot. Stir halfway through for even heating. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps it moist while warming. Enjoy your meal again! You should not use raw chicken. Raw chicken needs to cook fully for safety. Using cooked chicken makes this dish quick and easy. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. You can store the casserole in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to cover it well. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. It can stay frozen for up to three months. This casserole pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread. You might also enjoy it with steamed rice or quinoa. These sides complement the rich flavors of the dish. Yes, you can make this casserole in advance. Prepare the dish and cover it. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready, just pop it in the oven! This blog covered a simple yet tasty chicken broccoli casserole. You learned about the necessary ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for the best results. I shared ways to customize the dish and how to store it properly. With these insights, you can whip up a delicious meal that suits your taste. I hope you feel ready to create this casserole, impressing friends and family with your skills. Enjoy every bite!

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Delight

A creamy and cheesy casserole featuring shredded chicken, broccoli, and quinoa, topped with breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • If using fresh broccoli, steam the florets in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until slightly tender, then drain. For frozen, simply microwave according to package instructions until just thawed.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked quinoa, cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  • Lightly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with olive oil. Pour the mixture from the bowl into the casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
  • If you like a crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the casserole.
  • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Once done baking, let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm!

Notes

Optional breadcrumbs can add a crunchy topping.
Keyword broccoli, casserole, cheesy, Chicken, quinoa

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