Hey there my friend 👋. This creamy chicken quinoa and broccoli casserole is so good, you might find yourself sneaking bites straight from the dish.
The reason I use quinoa instead of rice? It soaks up all the flavors while adding extra protein. Plus, no pre-cooking is needed—just mix everything and bake. It’s creamy, hearty, and comes together in one dish. Let’s make it!
Utensils You Need
These are the utensils and/or equipment you need to make this recipe:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- Whisk
- Casserole dish (9×13 inch)
- Aluminum foil
- Oven mitts
Important Info
- Servings: 6 portions
- Estimated Cost to make this recipe: Around $12 for the whole dish
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Calories per serving: About 350 calories
- Cook Method: Baking
- Season: Best in Fall and Winter
- Courses: Main Course
- Cuisine: American-inspired
- Diets: GlutenFreeDiet, HighProteinDiet
How to Make Creamy Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole
Now I am going to tell you what ingredients you need to make this delicacy and how to make it.
Ingredients You Need
- 1 cup quinoa, uncooked
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
Alternative Ingredients
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below.
| Ingredient | Alternative |
|---|---|
| Quinoa | Brown rice (pre-cooked) |
| Chicken broth | Vegetable broth |
| Cheddar cheese | Mozzarella or Parmesan |
| Sour cream | Greek yogurt or cream cheese |
| Breadcrumbs | Crushed crackers or panko |
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water and drain.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, milk, sour cream, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the quinoa, shredded chicken, and broccoli to the bowl. Stir everything until combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese and breadcrumbs on top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Helpful Tips
- If using frozen broccoli, no need to thaw—it will cook in the casserole.
- For extra creaminess, add a little more cheese on top before baking.
- Want a crispy top? Broil the casserole for 2 minutes after baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time on prep.
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole
This dish is great on its own, but if you want a full meal, here are some ideas:
- A side of garlic bread
- A fresh green salad
- Roasted vegetables
How Do You Serve the Recipe?
I like serving this straight from the casserole dish while it’s still warm. A wide spoon works best to scoop out generous portions. If you want it fancy, sprinkle some extra cheese on top before serving.
Where Do You Serve This Recipe the Most?
This casserole is great for meal prep and weeknight dinners. It’s also a hit at potlucks and family gatherings because it stays warm for a long time. If you’re making it for a party, you can bake it in smaller ramekins for easy serving.
Storage
Short-Term Storage (Room Temperature)
- If you’re serving this within a few hours, just cover it with foil and keep it warm.
Refrigeration
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Freezing
- Let the casserole cool completely before freezing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it the night before and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk, dairy-free cheese, and a vegan yogurt substitute.
How do I make this casserole extra cheesy?
Use a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a gooey, melty texture.
Is this casserole kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy texture and mild flavors make it a hit with kids.