Healthy Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a simple, nourishing dish perfect for a cozy dinner. It combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy Greek yogurt, and melted cheese for a comforting meal that’s lighter but still full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli florets, Greek yogurt, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 3: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
- Step 5: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add minced garlic or onions to the mixture before baking.
- Use low-fat or fat-free Greek yogurt to reduce calories even further.
- Try swapping broccoli for other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach.
- Add a pinch of paprika or Italian seasoning for a subtle spice boost.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli; just thaw and drain any excess water before mixing it with the other ingredients to avoid a watery casserole.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It reheats well and makes a great ready-to-eat lunch or dinner throughout the week.
PrintHealthy Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe
This healthier broccoli chicken casserole is a comforting and nutritious dish combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy Greek yogurt, and melted cheese. It’s a lighter twist on the classic casserole, perfect for a wholesome family meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
Vegetables
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
Dairy
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, then drain well to remove excess moisture.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked broccoli, Greek yogurt, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything evenly until well incorporated.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake until bubbly: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and for flavors to meld.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken leftovers or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- To keep the dish lower in calories, choose reduced-fat cheese and Greek yogurt.
- Feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
- You can substitute the broccoli with cauliflower or a mix of vegetables if preferred.
- Make sure to drain the broccoli thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole.
Keywords: healthy casserole, broccoli chicken casserole, Greek yogurt casserole, low fat dinner, easy chicken bake
