Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole

This more healthy broccoli rooster casserole is a healthful twist on the basic consolation meals. Made with tender rooster, recent broccoli, and a lighter creamy sauce, it’s a satisfying dish that’s huge on taste however decrease in energy and fats. Good for busy weeknights, it’s simple to organize and positive to be a household favourite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Lighter Consolation Meals: All of the creamy goodness with out the guilt.
• Nutritious: Filled with lean protein and recent greens.
• Child-Pleasant: A good way to sneak in veggies that youngsters will love.
• Meal Prep Pleasant: Straightforward to make forward and excellent for leftovers.

Elements

(Tip: You’ll discover the complete record of elements and measurements within the recipe card beneath.)

• Chicken breasts (cooked and shredded or cubed)
• Contemporary broccoli florets
• Brown rice or quinoa (cooked)
• Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened)
• Low-fat milk
• Cheddar cheese (shredded, reduced-fat)
• Onion (diced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Olive oil
• Chicken broth (low-sodium)
• Flour (or cornstarch for a gluten-free possibility)
• Salt and pepper
• Paprika (optionally available, for further taste)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Prepare dinner the Broccoli:
   • Steam or blanch the broccoli florets till tender-crisp. Drain and put aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • Warmth olive oil in a skillet over medium warmth. Sauté diced onion and garlic till softened.
   • Stir in flour (or cornstarch) and prepare dinner for 1 minute. Steadily whisk in rooster broth and milk, stirring always till the combination thickens.
   • Take away from warmth and stir in Greek yogurt, half the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • In a big mixing bowl, mix the cooked rooster, broccoli, rice (or quinoa), and the sauce. Combine till all the things is evenly coated.
   • Switch the combination to the ready baking dish.
5. High and Bake:
   • Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the casserole.
   • Bake for 25-Half-hour, or till the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
   • Let the casserole cool barely earlier than serving. Garnish with recent parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: quarter-hour
• Prepare dinner Time: Half-hour

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch as a substitute of flour for the sauce and guarantee all different elements are gluten-free.
• Low-Carb: Exchange rice with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly possibility.
• Additional Veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots for extra selection.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crimson pepper flakes or a splash of sizzling sauce to the sauce.
• Cheese Choices: Attempt mozzarella, Parmesan, or a mix of cheeses for various flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Retailer leftovers in an hermetic container within the fridge for as much as 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat particular person parts within the microwave or your entire casserole within the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for as much as 2 months. Thaw within the fridge in a single day and bake as directed.

FAQs

1. Can I take advantage of frozen broccoli?

Sure, however thaw it first and pat it dry to take away extra moisture.

2. Can I make this casserole forward of time?

Completely! Assemble the casserole and retailer it within the fridge for as much as 24 hours earlier than baking.

3. Can I take advantage of rotisserie rooster?

Sure, shredded rotisserie rooster works completely and saves time.

4. What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

Use bitter cream or a dairy-free yogurt various if wanted.

5. Can I skip the cheese?

Sure, however the cheese provides richness and taste. You possibly can cut back the quantity when you choose.

6. What facet dishes pair effectively with this casserole?

Serve with a easy inexperienced salad, roasted greens, or garlic bread.

7. Can I take advantage of one other grain as a substitute of rice?

Quinoa, farro, or barley are glorious substitutes.

8. How do I forestall the casserole from turning into watery?

Drain the broccoli effectively and don’t overcook it earlier than including it to the casserole.

9. Can I add breadcrumbs on high?

Sure, sprinkle breadcrumbs combined with olive oil or melted butter for a crispy topping.

10. How do I do know when the casserole is completed?

The cheese needs to be melted and bubbly, and the inner temperature ought to attain 165°F.

Conclusion

Healthier broccoli rooster casserole is a comforting, nutritious dish that’s simple to make and full of taste. Good for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe will fulfill your cravings for creamy consolation meals with out the guilt. Attempt it at this time and luxuriate in a healthful meal the entire household will love!

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