At the end of a long day, I often find myself craving something warm and comforting that I can whip up without a fuss. Enter my Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake, a wholesome dish that transforms simple ingredients into a family favorite. Packed with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy quinoa, this healthy casserole is not only delicious but also gluten-free. The best part? It’s a quick weeknight dinner that delivers creamy comfort food while keeping things nutritious. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or just satisfy hungry bellies at home, this dish will become your new go-to. Curious about how to make this easy delight? Let’s dive into the details! Why will you adore this recipe? Wholesome Ingredients: The Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake uses nutritious elements that make it a guilt-free indulgence. Each bite combines protein-packed chicken, fiber-rich quinoa, and vibrant broccoli, ensuring your meal is both hearty and healthy. Quick Preparation: This dish shines on busy weeknights! With simple prep and minimal cooking time, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in under an hour, allowing more time for family and relaxation. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Who can resist the appeal of cheesy goodness? This casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, making it an instant hit with both kids and adults alike. Paired with a simple salad or crusty bread, it’s a complete meal! Versatile Options: Feel free to make it your own! Switch up proteins by substituting chicken with turkey or tofu, or try different veggies to suit your taste. With ideas like the Chicken Tortilla Wraps or Butter Chicken Comfort, the possibilities are endless! By crafting this dish, you’re embracing the joys of homemade cooking while creating a nutritious meal for yourself and your loved ones. Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake Ingredients For the Casserole Butter – Adds richness and flavor; can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Provides healthy fats; can replace with avocado oil for a different twist. Chopped Yellow Onion or Shallots – Enhances flavor base; use shallots for a milder taste or green onions for freshness. Garlic Cloves, minced – Offers aromatic flavor; substitute with garlic powder if you’re in a pinch. All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce; for gluten-free, substitute with cornstarch or gluten-free flour. Lower-Sodium Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and depth; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option. Whole Milk – Establishes creaminess; swap with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Poultry Seasoning – Infuses savory flavor; Italian seasoning or herbs de Provence can be a great alternative. Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Season to taste; sea salt or freshly ground pepper also works wonderfully. Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides a creamy, cheesy element; mozzarella can be used for a milder taste or nutritional yeast as a dairy-free option. Dry Quinoa – Acts as the main base for the dish; pre-cooked quinoa or couscous can be an alternative. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Main protein source for tenderness; swap with turkey or firm tofu as desired. Broccoli Florets – Adds nutrition and texture; cauliflower or green beans are excellent substitutes. This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake blends wholesome ingredients into a nourishing meal that your family will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake Step 1: Prepare Cheese Sauce In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, stirring until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Gradually whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for an additional minute to eliminate the raw taste. Slowly pour in 2 cups of lower-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of whole milk, stirring continuously until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in seasonings and 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted. Step 2: Combine Ingredients Grease a 4-quart baking dish with a little olive oil. Layer the base with 1 cup of dry quinoa, followed by 1 pound of diced boneless skinless chicken breasts and 2 cups of broccoli florets. Pour the prepared cheese sauce over the mixture, then gently stir to ensure the quinoa, chicken, and broccoli are thoroughly coated. This combination of ingredients sets the stage for your Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake. Step 3: Bake Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 45 minutes. Halfway through, gently stir the casserole to help incorporate the moisture. Keep an eye on it—once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (73.8°C) and the quinoa is fluffy, you know it’s nearly done. If it’s not quite there, add an additional 5-10 minutes as necessary. Step 4: Finish with Cheese After the baking time, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Stir the casserole gently to combine, then sprinkle an extra cup of shredded cheese on top for an even cheesier finish. Return the dish to the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes, watching closely until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. This final step of your Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake elevates it to pure comfort food perfection. Expert Tips for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake Rinse the Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa before cooking to eliminate its natural bitterness, ensuring your Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake has a delicious flavor. Mind the Broiler: Keep an eye on the casserole while broiling to avoid burning the cheese topping; it happens quickly, and nobody likes a charred taste! Check Chicken Temp: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (73.8°C), ensuring it’s fully cooked for a safe and delicious meal. Adjust for Altitude: If you’re cooking at a higher altitude, expect longer cook times. The quinoa may take a bit longer to become fluffy, so patience is key! Variation Exploration: Don’t hesitate to swap out protein or veggies based on what’s in your fridge—trying different combinations makes your Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake uniquely yours every time! Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake Customization Feel free to explore exciting tweaks to make this dish your own; your taste buds will thank you! Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a creamy yet dairy-free option. You won’t miss the traditional flavors! Gluten-Free: Instead of all-purpose flour, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the sauce without compromising taste. Spice It Up: Want a kick? Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap regular cheese for pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist. Your taste buds will dance! Veggie Boost: Replace broccoli with a medley of mixed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, or even spinach for a vibrant color and additional nutrients. Protein Swap: For a lighter option, substitute the chicken with turkey or canned chickpeas. Turkey gives a nice flavor, while chickpeas add an earthy quality. Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese combinations like gouda or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a nutty, dairy-free option. Hearty Fiber: Consider using farro or bulgur in place of quinoa to add a chewier texture and nutty flavor, enticing even the pickiest eaters. Adding your personal touch can turn this recipe into something magical, just like how you can bring life to your own unique Quick Chicken Recipes, such as Mini Baked Chicken Tacos or the delightful Chicken Caesar Sandwich. Embrace the creativity! What to Serve with Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake What could elevate your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake into a full-fledged dining experience? Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread adds a delightful crunch, perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness from the casserole. Simple Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette give a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bake, delighting your palate with every bite. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with olive oil and herbs, roasted vegetables such as carrots and bell peppers bring both color and nutrition to the table, complementing the hearty casserole. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a touch of elegance and a vibrant splash of green, making your meal feel even more gourmet. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness balances the savory elements of the casserole while providing a fun, playful texture and flavor. Hot Sauce: A splash of your favorite hot sauce can introduce a welcome kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile and elevating the comfort food experience. Lemonade or Iced Tea: These refreshing beverages perfectly complement the creamy richness of the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake, keeping your meal balanced and satisfying. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Treat yourself to something sweet after your savory meal; warm chocolate chip cookies provide the perfect comforting finish for a cozy night in. How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To maintain the dish’s creamy texture, ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent moisture loss. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, approximately 20-25 minutes. Enjoy the comforting flavors of your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake as if it were freshly made! Reassembly Tip: If freezing, consider omitting the extra cheese topping before freezing to prevent it from becoming rubbery. Add it fresh before baking or broiling! Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance by preparing the cheese sauce and layering the ingredients (quinoa, chicken, and broccoli) in the baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake it straight from the fridge—just adjust the baking time by adding an extra 5-10 minutes since the dish will be cold. This makes dinner hassle-free, and you’ll enjoy the same creamy comfort with minimal effort! Plus, busy weeknights suddenly feel a lot more manageable! Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake Recipe FAQs How do I select the right broccoli for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing broccoli, look for bright green florets that are firm and tightly packed. Avoid any with yellowing blossoms or dark spots all over, as these indicate aging. Fresh broccoli should also have a crisp stem. If you’re unsure, feel the florets—if they’re soft, it’s time to pass. What’s the best way to store leftovers of the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake? Very! You can store any leftovers in an airtight container. They’re best kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to seal it properly to prevent moisture loss, which can affect the creamy texture. If you find you have more leftovers than you can eat, don’t worry—I’ve got freezing tips below! Can I freeze this casserole, and how? Absolutely! To freeze your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake, first, let it cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty aluminum foil. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can then reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. I suggest adding the cheese topping fresh before baking to maintain the perfect texture! What if my chicken is undercooked when I check the casserole? If you find that your chicken isn’t fully cooked yet, no need to worry! Just pop the casserole back in the oven and give it an additional 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (73.8°C). It’s essential to make sure everything is cooked through for both flavor and safety. Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind? For sure! If you or any of your loved ones have dietary restrictions, this recipe is quite flexible. Use gluten-free alternatives for flour and broth, and swap dairy milk with almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. You can also choose poultry seasoning that doesn’t include allergens. If making adjustments for vegetarians, swap the chicken for firm tofu or legumes. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they fit your dietary needs. Can I use pre-cooked quinoa in this recipe? Very! If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked quinoa is a great option. Just substitute it for the dry quinoa in the recipe without altering the amount. Since it’s already cooked, it will save you some time during prep and you won’t have to worry about it absorbing too much moisture during baking. Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake That's Simply Irresistible This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake is a wholesome, quick, and delicious dinner, perfect for families and friends alike. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Casserole2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness and flavor; can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.1 tablespoon Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Provides healthy fats; can replace with avocado oil.1 cup Chopped Yellow Onion or Shallots Use shallots for a milder taste.2 cloves Garlic Cloves, minced Substitute with garlic powder if needed.3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Substitute with cornstarch or gluten-free flour for gluten-free.2 cups Lower-Sodium Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for vegetarian option.1 cup Whole Milk Swap with almond milk or coconut milk for dairy-free.1 tablespoon Poultry Seasoning Italian seasoning or herbs de Provence can be a substitute.to taste Kosher Salt & Black Pepper Sea salt or freshly ground pepper works well.2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese Mozzarella can be used for a milder taste.1 cup Dry Quinoa Pre-cooked quinoa or couscous can be an alternative.1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Swap with turkey or firm tofu as desired.2 cups Broccoli Florets Cauliflower or green beans are excellent substitutes. Equipment medium saucepan4-quart baking dishMeat thermometer Method InstructionsIn a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, stirring until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Gradually whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for an additional minute to eliminate the raw taste. Slowly pour in 2 cups of lower-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of whole milk, stirring continuously until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in seasonings and 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted.Grease a 4-quart baking dish with a little olive oil. Layer the base with 1 cup of dry quinoa, followed by 1 pound of diced boneless skinless chicken breasts and 2 cups of broccoli florets. Pour the prepared cheese sauce over the mixture, then gently stir to ensure the quinoa, chicken, and broccoli are thoroughly coated.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 45 minutes. Halfway through, gently stir the casserole to incorporate moisture.After baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Stir the casserole gently, then sprinkle an extra cup of shredded cheese on top. Return the dish to the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes, watching closely until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesRinse quinoa before cooking to eliminate bitterness. Keep an eye on the broiler to avoid burning cheese. Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Adjust for altitude as needed. Explore variations with different proteins or veggies. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
