Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a wholesome twist on the classic comfort food dish. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, whole-grain rice, and a creamy yet lightened-up sauce, it delivers all the cozy flavors you love without the guilt. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or feeding a hungry family, this casserole is an easy, nutritious option that everyone will enjoy.

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

9×13-inch baking dish
Medium saucepan
Large mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon for mixing
Cutting board and knife

Overview of Ingredients

Chicken Breast – Lean protein, cooked and shredded for the casserole base.
Broccoli – Fresh or frozen florets add nutrients and color.
Brown Rice or Quinoa – A fiber-rich base to keep the dish hearty and satisfying.
Greek Yogurt – Adds creaminess while keeping the sauce light.
Chicken Broth – Forms the base of the sauce for a savory flavor.
Cheddar Cheese – A little goes a long way to add richness.
Onion and Garlic – Enhance the flavor with aromatic depth.
Whole Wheat Panko – For a crispy, golden topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Base Ingredients
Cook 1 cup of brown rice or quinoa according to package instructions. Steam 2 cups of broccoli florets until tender but still bright green.

Prepare the Chicken
Season 2 medium chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then bake or boil until fully cooked. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce
In a medium saucepan, sauté 1 small chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in 1 tablespoon of olive oil until fragrant. Whisk in 1 cup of chicken broth, 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt, and 1/4 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Let the mixture simmer until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

Assemble the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and creamy sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Add the Topping
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Top with 1/2 cup of whole wheat panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tablespoon of olive oil for a crunchy finish.

Bake the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.

Serve
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.

Recipe Tips

Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping altogether.
Add More Veggies: Include mushrooms, carrots, or peas for extra variety and nutrients.
Use Leftover Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works great for a quicker prep time.
Customize the Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.

What to Serve with Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole

This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a slice of whole-grain bread or rolls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Assemble, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Ingredients

2 medium chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
1 cup brown rice or quinoa, cooked
2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
1 small onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook rice or quinoa and steam broccoli. Shred the cooked chicken.
In a saucepan, sauté onion and garlic, then whisk in chicken broth, Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard. Simmer until thickened.
Combine rice, chicken, broccoli, and sauce in a large bowl. Transfer to the baking dish.
Top with cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Enjoy the lighter, nutritious take on a classic Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole, a perfect choice for wholesome comfort food!