If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, satisfying meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious, this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe might just become your new dinnertime hero. Creamy Greek yogurt and melty mozzarella hold tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and hearty whole grains together in each irresistible, bubbly forkful. Best of all, this lightened-up classic lets you enjoy all the comfort of a traditional casserole, but with a much healthier twist—perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or sharing with loved ones around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe comes together with a handful of wholesome ingredients, each playing a special role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. These basic pantry staples and fresh picks are your ticket to a dinner that feels both effortless and gourmet.
- Cooked Chicken Breast: Already cooked, shredded or cubed chicken brings lean protein and satisfying heartiness to every bite.
- Broccoli Florets: Lightly steamed or blanched, broccoli adds cheerful color, nutrients, and a little crunch for balance.
- Brown Rice or Quinoa: Choose your favorite whole grain to provide a wholesome, nutty base that soaks up every bit of flavor.
- Olive Oil: Just a splash is all you need to sauté the aromatics and keep everything moist and luscious.
- Small Onion: Chopped onion sweats down to a mellow sweetness that infuses the casserole with flavor from the very start.
- Garlic: A couple of cloves, minced, bring pops of savory aroma that wake up the whole dish.
- Low-Fat Greek Yogurt: This is your secret weapon for a creamy sauce, minus the heaviness of cream or mayo.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and depth without too much salt, letting the other flavors shine.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts perfectly for gooey, cheesy richness while still keeping it light.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Brings in a salty, nutty note and helps create that crave-worthy top layer.
- Salt and Black Pepper: The essentials for making every ingredient pop without overpowering the fresh flavors.
- Dried Thyme: A sprinkle of herbs adds subtle earthiness and aroma that ties everything together.
- Onion Powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile and complements the fresh onions beautifully.
- Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs (optional): Sprinkle these on top for an extra-crispy, golden finish—totally optional but highly recommended!
- Cooking Spray: A quick, even coating helps everything bake up without sticking.
How to Make Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Preheat
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to set the stage for perfectly baked goodness. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray, ensuring effortless serving and cleanup later.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm your olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until soft and slightly translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute longer, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.
Step 3: Mix Up the Casserole Base
Grab a roomy mixing bowl and add the cooked chicken, broccoli, your choice of brown rice or quinoa, the sautéed onion and garlic, Greek yogurt, chicken broth, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, thyme, and onion powder. Stir until everything is luscious and well combined—this is the foundation of your Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe.
Step 4: Assemble and Top
Pour that creamy, colorful mixture into your prepared baking dish. Smooth it out evenly so every scoop will be just right. If you like a little extra crunch, sprinkle the top with whole wheat breadcrumbs and mist lightly with cooking spray to encourage a golden, crispy finish.
Step 5: Bake to Bubbly Perfection
Slide your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. When it’s hot, bubbling, and golden on top, you’ll know it’s ready. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving so everything sets just enough for tidy slices and second helpings.
How to Serve Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a flourish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a handful of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives right before serving. These little touches not only look lovely but also enliven every bite with a fresh burst of color and flavor.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted carrots or asparagus for extra veggies. If you’re in the mood for something cozy, a roasted sweet potato rounds out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting or just want to shake things up, portion the Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe into individual ramekins before baking. Or, scatter a handful of cherry tomatoes on top before the casserole goes in the oven for an extra burst of color and juiciness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover casserole tightly with foil or keep it in an airtight container. It will happily keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep or grab-and-go lunches.
Freezing
This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe freezes easily! After baking and cooling, slice into portions and wrap well or store in freezer-safe containers. It will keep its flavor and texture for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To rekindle that just-baked magic, reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the whole dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. If you’re microwaving, add a splash of broth or a dollop of Greek yogurt to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a brilliant shortcut for the Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe. Just shred or cube the meat, and you’re good to go—plus, it adds even more savory flavor.
What types of vegetables can I add?
Feel free to get creative! Spinach, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or even peas all blend in seamlessly. The Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe is flexible, so use what you have or what your family loves.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, with a few swaps. Use a dairy-free yogurt and cheese, and double-check your breadcrumbs for any hidden dairy. You’ll still enjoy a creamy, comforting result with your Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe.
Is it possible to make this ahead of time?
You bet! Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply uncover and pop it in the oven. This makes busy weeknights a breeze.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs on top?
Try crushed whole-grain crackers or even a sprinkle of extra cheese. Or, leave off the topping altogether for a lighter but still satisfying Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to upgrade your comfort food routine, give this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe a go. It’s one of those dishes that brings both nourishment and genuine joy to the table—simple to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!
Print
Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole recipe is a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic comfort dish. Packed with protein and veggies, this low-fat casserole is perfect for a wholesome family dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
- 3 cups broccoli florets (lightly steamed or blanched)
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
Seasoning and Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup low-fat plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Topping:
- ½ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (optional)
- cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Sauté onions and garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion and garlic until soft.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine chicken, broccoli, rice/quinoa, sautéed onion/garlic, Greek yogurt, broth, cheeses, seasonings.
- Bake: Transfer mixture to baking dish, top with breadcrumbs if desired, and bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- This recipe is great for using leftover chicken.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt with light sour cream or cottage cheese.
- Feel free to add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
