Broccoli Quinoa Casserole
Broccoli Quinoa Casserole combines steamed quinoa and broccoli with cooked, diced chicken breast in a creamy cheddar cheese sauce enriched with Greek yogurt. A browned panko breadcrumb topping adds crisp texture. The dish bakes to meld flavors and textures, creating a hearty, satisfying casserole with a balance of tender vegetables, protein, and creamy cheese. It’s suitable as a comforting main or side.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 broccoli cut into florets and finely chopped, head
- 2 tablespoon olive oil divided
- ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3 boneless skinless thin-sliced chicken breasts
- salt to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- black pepper to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk 2%
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese divided, shredded
- ⅓ cup Greek yogurt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly oil an 9×13 baking dish or coat with nonstick spray.
- In a large saucepan of 2 cups water, cook quinoa according to package instructions. Within the last 5 minutes of cooking time, add broccoli on top and steam until cooked through.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add Panko and cook, stirring, until browned and toasted, about 3 minutes; set aside.
- Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in the skillet. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, to taste. Add to skillet and cook, flipping once, until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Let cool before dicing into bite-size pieces; set aside.
- Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat. Whisk in flour until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, and cook, whisking constantly, until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in quinoa, broccoli, chicken, 1 cup cheese and Greek yogurt; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Spread broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish; sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Place into oven and bake until cheese has melted, about 5 minutes.
- Serve immediately, sprinkled with Panko, if desired.
Notes
- Panko breadcrumbs provide a crisp topping and should be toasted before adding to the casserole.