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Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake for Easy Weeknight Wins

This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake is a comforting one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness and flavor; can be substituted with margarine or olive oil.
  • 1 tablespoon Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Enhances flavor and helps sauté aromatics; substitute with avocado oil.
  • 1 medium Chopped Yellow Onion Provides foundational flavor; leeks or shallots can be used as alternatives.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Imparts aromatic zest; garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is unavailable.
  • 0.25 cups All-Purpose Flour Thickens the cheese sauce; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • 2 cups Lower-Sodium Chicken Broth Adds depth of flavor; vegetable broth works as a vegetarian alternative.
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Contributes creaminess; substitute with almond milk or 2% milk for lighter options.
  • 1 tablespoon Poultry Seasoning Adds savory flavor; Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence are great alternatives.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances overall flavor; sea salt provides better taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Enhances overall flavor; use fresh cracked pepper for better taste.
  • 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese Brings a tangy richness to the dish; options include Monterey Jack or Gruyère.
For the Main Dish
  • 1 cup Dry (Uncooked) Quinoa Acts as the starch base; can substitute with brown rice or farro.
  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Provides protein; boneless thighs or tofu can be used for a vegetarian option.
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets Adds freshness and nutrients; substitute with cauliflower.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • 4-quart baking dish

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped yellow onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  2. Stir in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and cook for an additional 2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of lower-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of whole milk, simmering for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  3. Mix in 1 tablespoon of poultry seasoning, a pinch of kosher salt, and black pepper to taste, then stir in half of the shredded sharp cheddar until melted.
  4. Prepare a greased 4-quart baking dish. Combine 1 cup of dry quinoa, 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces, and 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets.
  5. Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the mixture and gently stir to ensure all ingredients are coated.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the prepared baking dish in the oven and bake for 45 minutes.
  7. About halfway through, stir gently to mix everything well and check for doneness. If necessary, give it an additional 5-10 minutes.
  8. Once baked, sprinkle the remaining half of the shredded cheddar on top and broil for 3-5 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 35gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For the best flavor, use quality sharp cheddar cheese and ensure that all ingredients are well mixed.

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