Ultimate Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole

This creamy, comforting Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole is the ultimate weeknight meal that combines the best of nutrition and indulgence in one dish. Packed with lean chicken, wholesome quinoa, tender broccoli, and a cheesy, creamy sauce, it’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, feeding your family, or just craving a cozy dinner, this casserole checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s customizable to suit different dietary needs and preferences!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a healthy and filling meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole is a must-try! It’s a balanced, one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting and nourishing. The quinoa adds a hearty, protein-packed base, while the chicken and broccoli provide essential nutrients like fiber and vitamins. And the creamy, cheesy sauce? It brings everything together beautifully without being overly heavy. You’ll love how versatile this dish is and how it’s guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, steamed lightly)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk (or unsweetened non-dairy milk)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
Start by cooking the quinoa. Combine 1 cup of rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water or chicken broth in a medium saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
While the quinoa is cooking, steam or sauté the broccoli. If using fresh broccoli, lightly steam it until tender but still vibrant green—this usually takes around 3-4 minutes. If using frozen broccoli, simply thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken (Optional)
If your chicken isn’t pre-cooked, sauté it in a little olive oil over medium heat until fully cooked, then shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. For a faster option, feel free to use rotisserie chicken—it’s a huge time-saver and still adds great flavor!

Step 4: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chicken, broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed, and the creamy sauce starts to form.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Transfer the quinoa mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 6: Add Toppings and Bake
If you want a crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle them evenly over the casserole. This adds a nice texture and a golden finish to the dish. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to slice and serve. You’ll love the gooey, cheesy goodness that’s waiting inside!

Save

Tips and Tricks

• Make Ahead: This casserole is great for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for those busy days when you want to minimize your time in the kitchen.
• Frozen or Fresh Broccoli: Whether you use fresh or frozen broccoli, the dish will turn out wonderfully. If you’re using frozen, just make sure to thaw and drain it first to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to load this casserole with more veggies! Peas, carrots, spinach, or bell peppers all make excellent additions and boost the nutritional value of the dish.
• Cheese Options: If cheddar isn’t your favorite, try swapping it out for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a sharp white cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Version: You can easily make this casserole dairy-free by using non-dairy milk, plant-based yogurt, and dairy-free cheese. It’s a perfect option for anyone who’s avoiding dairy but still loves a creamy, cheesy meal.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
• Freezing for Later: This casserole freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly and freezing it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven or microwave.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole is a complete meal all on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes to round out the meal. Serve it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s also great with a side of mashed potatoes if you’re craving something extra comforting!

Variations

• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the mix. The creamy sauce will balance out the spice perfectly.
• Make it Vegetarian: If you prefer a meatless version, simply skip the chicken and add in some chickpeas or white beans for protein. You can also increase the amount of veggies for a satisfying vegetarian casserole.
• Swap the Grain: Not a fan of quinoa? No problem! You can use brown rice, couscous, or even farro as a substitute. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times for the grain you choose.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold from the fridge.

What type of quinoa works best?
White quinoa is mild and fluffy, making it a great choice for this casserole. However, red or tri-color quinoa will add a bit more texture and color, making the dish even more visually appealing.

Can I use canned chicken?
While fresh or rotisserie chicken is ideal for flavor and texture, canned chicken works in a pinch. Just be sure to drain and shred it well.

Will the quinoa get mushy?
As long as you cook the quinoa properly (until tender but not overcooked), it should hold its texture and won’t turn mushy in the casserole.

Conclusion

This Chicken Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Casserole is everything you need in one dish: comforting, nutritious, and totally delicious. The combination of protein-rich chicken, wholesome quinoa, and creamy, cheesy goodness makes it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Plus, it’s easy to customize, making it a versatile option for everyone in the family. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as part of a larger spread, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Enjoy this simple yet satisfying meal, and watch as it quickly becomes a go-to recipe for both busy evenings and lazy weekends.