Description
This Healthy Broccoli Chicken Casserole hits all the right notes for a perfect weeknight dinner or a delightful family gathering. It offers incredible flavor with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is not only remarkably healthy but is also highly convenient, making it ideal for busy cooks. It's versatile and can easily be adapted to suit dietary needs, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 medium Yellow Onion, chopped
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
2 cups Milk
1 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
1 teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
4 cups Cooked Chicken, shredded or diced
4 cups Fresh Broccoli Florets, steamed or blanched
1.5 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese, divided
1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (optional)
2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan, sauté onion until soft, add garlic and cook for 1 minute
- Sprinkle flour over onion mixture, cook for 1-2 minutes, then gradually whisk in milk and broth
- Stir in seasonings, taste and adjust as needed, then remove from heat
- Combine chicken, broccoli, and 1 cup cheese in a large bowl, pour sauce over and mix well
- Transfer to baking dish, top with remaining cheese and panko if using
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden; let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving
Notes
This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 375 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg