Creamy Chicken Quinoa Broccoli Casserole
Before diving into this delectable creamy chicken quinoa broccoli casserole, let’s first consider what else you might want on your plate. This dish can be paired with a simple side salad to bring in fresh, raw flavors that complement the creaminess.
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Servings: 6
Calories: 360kcal
Equipment
- bowl
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons seasoning blend such as Emeril’s Essence or your favorite all-purpose mix
- 1 cup rinsed uncooked quinoa
- 2 cups water divided
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 cup 2% milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon poultry spice blend
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup crisped crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1/4 cup shredded Gruyère cheese or any semi-hard cheese you prefer
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for ensuring your casserole cooks evenly and turns golden brown on top.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Next, season the boneless chicken breasts with the spice blend. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chicken until it’s cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Then, remove the chicken, let it cool, and dice it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Quinoa
- In the same skillet, add 1 cup of quinoa along with 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until all the water has been absorbed. Fluff it with a fork before setting it aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- For the creamy part, take a saucepan, whisk together 1/2 cup of flour and 1 cup of milk over medium heat. Gradually add in 2 cups of chicken stock, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes). Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, and the poultry spice blend.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, quinoa, broccoli florets, and the creamy sauce. If you’re using crispy bacon, toss that in too. The cornucopia of flavors and textures will start to come together, forming a cohesive mix.
Step 6: Bake It Up
- Transfer this mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the 1/4 cup of shredded Gruyère cheese evenly on top. Cover with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep, grab a rotisserie chicken from the deli. Shred it and mix it into your casserole for a shortcut.
- Blanch the Broccoli: For vibrant color and crisp-tender perfection, blanch your broccoli for a couple of minutes before mixing it in.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the fridge. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Extra Cheese: If you love cheese, don’t hold back! Feel free to mix in some cheese throughout the casserole for an added richness.
- Add Other Veggies: Don’t hesitate to throw in other veggies like bell peppers or spinach. They’ll boost the nutrition and color of your dish.