Description
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake is a healthy, comforting casserole that combines tender chicken, nutrient-rich broccoli, and protein-packed quinoa smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Cheese Sauce
- 2 Tbsp. butter
- 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion or shallots
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 2 cups lower-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp. poultry seasoning
- 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided
- 1 tsp. black pepper, divided
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup dry (uncooked) quinoa
- 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups broccoli florets
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3 to 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 full minutes, ensuring the raw flour taste is cooked out. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and whole milk, increasing the heat to bring the mixture to a simmer. Continue to simmer for 5 minutes while whisking frequently until the sauce thickens slightly. Add in the poultry seasoning, half of the salt and black pepper, and half (1/2 cup) of the shredded cheddar cheese. Remove from heat once smooth and combined.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the boneless skinless chicken breasts into small bite-sized pieces. Season them with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Assemble the Bake: Grease a 4-quart baking dish with cooking spray. Add the dry quinoa, seasoned chicken pieces, and broccoli florets evenly into the dish. Pour the prepared cheese sauce over the mixture and gently stir to ensure all ingredients are mostly submerged in the sauce.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. Stir the casserole once halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. Check to make sure the quinoa is tender and the chicken is cooked through. If needed, continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
- Broil with Cheese: Remove the casserole from the oven, stir once more, and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Set the oven to broil and broil the bake for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Serve hot, optionally adding a few dashes of hot sauce or your preferred toppings for an extra kick.
Notes
- You can substitute yellow onion with shallots for a milder flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit chicken, or substitute with plant-based protein.
- Ensure quinoa is fully cooked by testing it after the initial baking time and extending as needed.
- Use cooking spray to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
- Broiling at the end gives a delicious golden crust to the cheese, but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
