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.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Casserole

2 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 saucepan
4-quart baking dish
Meat thermometer

Method

Instructions

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.
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

Notes

Rinse 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.

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