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Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole

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This healthier version of the classic broccoli chicken casserole is creamy, comforting, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, brown rice, and a lightened-up creamy sauce, it’s a family-friendly dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or light sour cream)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup whole-grain breadcrumbs or panko (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the Sauce:
    • Heat olive oil or butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
    • Add the chicken broth, milk, onion powder, paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until smooth and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
    • Remove from heat and stir in the Greek yogurt until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Assemble the Casserole:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked brown rice, and the creamy sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
    • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly and top with shredded cheddar cheese. For added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs or panko on top.
  5. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
  6. Serve:
    • Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.
  • For a low-carb version, substitute brown rice with cauliflower rice.
  • You can make this casserole ahead of time. Assemble and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 1 day, then bake when ready to serve.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/healthier-broccoli-chicken-casserole/