Jump to Recipe Print RecipeRushing home after a long day, the last thing I want is to face another dull meal. That’s where my Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake comes to the rescue! This dish is not just a flavor-packed casserole; it’s a comforting embrace of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and wholesome quinoa enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights, this healthy and gluten-free meal comes together in no time, allowing me to enjoy home-cooked goodness without the fuss. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest of eaters won’t be able to resist. Curious about how to whip up this delightful dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive in! Why is this recipe a must-try? Flavorful Comfort: The combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and nutty quinoa makes every bite a wholesome delight. Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for even novice cooks seeking a homemade meal. Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients and gluten-free, it caters to those wanting a lighter option without sacrificing taste. Quick Weeknight Solution: Ready in under 60 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for busy evenings. Crowd-Pleasing Dish: This casserole appeals to all palates, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or dinner parties. Whether paired with a side of hearty bread or a light salad, Baked Chicken Tenders or a warm bowl of Thai Chicken Soup, your dinner table will be a hit! Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake Ingredients For the Cheese Sauce Butter – Adds richness and flavor. Substitution: Use olive oil for a dairy-free option. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and aids in cooking. Use more butter if desired for a richer taste. Yellow Onion or Shallots – Provides aromatic base and sweetness. Can substitute with leeks or scallions. Garlic – Adds depth of flavor. Adjust quantity based on taste preference. All-Purpose Flour – Thickens cheese sauce. Substitution: Use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free theme. Lower-Sodium Chicken Broth – Liquefies and enriches the sauce. Chicken or vegetable broth can be substituted based on preference. Whole Milk – Creates a creamy texture for the sauce. Use low-fat or a non-dairy milk alternative for a lighter version. Poultry Seasoning – Adds herbaceous flavor. Substitution: Use a blend of thyme, rosemary, and sage if unavailable. Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor profile. Adjust to taste. Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides rich, cheesy flavor. Substitution: Use any melty cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for variations. For the Casserole Dry (Uncooked) Quinoa – Acts as the base of the casserole, soaking up flavors. Alternative: Use cooked rice for a different grain option. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Main protein source that keeps the dish hearty. Substitution: Chicken thighs or cooked shredded chicken can be used. Broccoli Florets – Adds nutrition, color, and texture. Substitution: Cauliflower or mixed vegetables can be used for variety. Get ready to create a delicious Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake that will be a hit at your dinner table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake Step 1: Make the Cheese Sauce In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté finely chopped yellow onion and minced garlic for 3–5 minutes until soft and fragrant. Gradually whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, then slowly pour in 2 cups of lower-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of whole milk. Bring to a simmer (about 5 minutes), stirring constantly until thickened. Stir in seasonings and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Chicken Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, cut 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, seasoning them generously with kosher salt and black pepper. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread out the uncooked quinoa evenly as the base for your Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake. Step 3: Combine Ingredients Add the seasoned chicken pieces and 2 cups of broccoli florets to the baking dish over the quinoa. Pour the melted cheese sauce over the entire mixture, ensuring everything is well-coated. Stir gently but thoroughly to distribute the sauce evenly across the chicken, quinoa, and broccoli, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Step 4: Bake the Casserole Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, removing the foil halfway through to allow gentle steaming and prevent excess moisture. Check for doneness at the 45-minute mark; the quinoa should be tender, and the chicken thoroughly cooked. If needed, bake an additional 5-10 minutes until everything is perfectly cooked. Step 5: Broil for a Golden Finish Once fully baked, remove the casserole from the oven and give it a good stir. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for that delicious, melty layer. Return it to the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, creating a beautiful finish for your Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake. How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This ensures your Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake remains fresh and delicious for quick meals later. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 months. You can freeze it before or after baking, allowing for flexibility based on your meal planning. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator. This gradual thawing helps maintain texture and flavor before reheating. Reheating: To warm up, place individual portions in a microwave or a baking dish at 350°F until hot throughout. If reheating from frozen, adjust cooking time as needed to ensure it is fully heated. Expert Tips for Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake Even Coating: Ensure all ingredients are well-coated in the cheese sauce to prevent dryness. This gives every bite that creamy goodness you crave! Setting Time: Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes after baking. This allows it to set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors. Grain Substitution: If you choose a different grain like rice, be mindful of adjusting cooking times. Uncooked quinoa typically requires about 45 minutes to bake through. Salt Caution: Be cautious with salt, especially if using pre-seasoned chicken broth or cheese to avoid an overly salty dish. Veggie Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with veggies! Cauliflower or mixed vegetables can add exciting flavors and textures to your Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake. Storage Safety: To ensure freshness, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, making for delicious quick meals later! Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake Variations Feel free to explore new dimensions of flavor and nourishment with these delightful twists! Grain Swap: Use brown rice or barley instead of quinoa for added texture and a different taste experience. Each option brings its own unique flavor profile to the casserole. Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the mix for extra nutrition and color. This allows you to tailor the dish to your family’s preferences and seasonal availability. Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a zesty touch that elevates the dish with some heat. This little addition will surprise and excite the taste buds! Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese blend for a creamy, dairy-free option that everyone can enjoy. The comforting essence of the bake remains, while accommodating different dietary needs. Protein Varieties: Feel free to experiment with chicken thighs or even lean turkey for a different flavor and texture. The richness of the chicken thighs brings an extra layer of depth, while turkey keeps it equally hearty. Cauliflower Alternative: Swap the broccoli for cauliflower florets or a combination of mixed vegetables for a different texture and taste. It’s a wonderful way to use up any seasonal veggies you might have on hand. Nutty Flavor: Stir in a handful of toasted almonds or walnuts before baking for an unexpected crunch and nutty flavor. This not only changes the texture but also adds a nutritious boost. Casserole Makeover: For an element of surprise, layer the ingredients in a cast iron skillet, then finish off with the cheese under the broiler. This not only enhances presentation but also creates an appetizing crust! Consider pairing your Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake with a side of warm Baked Chicken Tenders or a bright bowl of Thai Chicken Soup for a perfect evening meal. Happy cooking! Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. To maintain quality, assemble the dish with the cheese sauce, quinoa, chicken, and broccoli, but don’t add the topping until just before baking to keep the cheese fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it at 375°F for 45-55 minutes until hot and bubbly, making sure to broil for 3-5 minutes at the end for that golden, cheesy layer. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy a fresh, comforting meal with minimal fuss on busy weeknights! What to Serve with Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake Elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides that will complement this comforting casserole beautifully. Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery texture of garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy filling of the bake, adding an extra layer of comfort to your meal. Steamed Green Beans: A light and crisp side that balances out the richness of the casserole, adding freshness and vibrant color to your plate. Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine, tangy dressing, and parmesan crisps brighten up your meal, creating a refreshing contrast to the cheesy chicken bake. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized edges and earthy flavor provide a satisfying and healthy addition, enhancing the overall dish’s depth with each bite. Quinoa Salad: A light salad combining cucumbers and tomatoes not only echoes the quinoa in the bake but also adds texture and brightness to your meal. Chardonnay: A glass of chilled chardonnay not only brings out the flavors of the gouda and broccoli but also makes your dinner feel a touch more elegant. Fruit Sorbet: End your meal on a light note with a scoop of fruity sorbet; it will cleanse your palate and provide a refreshing finish after your hearty casserole. Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake Recipe FAQs What kind of chicken is best for this recipe? I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this casserole as they remain tender and juicy during the baking process. You can also use chicken thighs or cooked shredded chicken if that’s what you have on hand! How should I store leftover Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake? To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy a quick meal later that’s just as delicious as the first serving! Can I freeze this dish, and if so, how? Absolutely! You can freeze the Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake before or after baking. To do so, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. What do I do if my quinoa isn’t cooking properly in the casserole? If you find that the quinoa isn’t cooking through, it could be due to insufficient liquid. Make sure to check the ratio of quinoa to liquid in your recipe. If needed, add a little more broth or water and extend the baking time in 5-minute increments until fully cooked. The quinoa should absorb all the flavors and be nice and fluffy! Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Yes! This dish is gluten-free if you use a gluten-free flour option and ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free. For dairy-free alternatives, substitute the whole milk with a non-dairy milk and use a vegan cheese product. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies! How can I enhance the veggie content in this casserole? Very! Feel free to add extra veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots. Simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and toss them in with the broccoli before pouring in the cheese sauce. This not only boosts the nutritional profile but also adds a splash of color! Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake for Cozy Nights A flavor-packed Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake, perfect for busy weeknights and packed with wholesome ingredients. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: CasseroleCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cheese Sauce2 tablespoons Butter Substitution: Use olive oil for a dairy-free option.1 tablespoon Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Use more butter if desired for a richer taste.1 medium Yellow Onion or Shallots Can substitute with leeks or scallions.2 cloves Garlic Adjust quantity based on taste preference.1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Substitution: Use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free theme.2 cups Lower-Sodium Chicken Broth Chicken or vegetable broth can be substituted based on preference.1 cup Whole Milk Use low-fat or a non-dairy milk alternative for a lighter version.1 teaspoon Poultry Seasoning Substitution: Use a blend of thyme, rosemary, and sage if unavailable.to taste Kosher Salt & Black Pepper Adjust to taste.2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese Substitution: Use any melty cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for variations.For the Casserole1 cup Dry (Uncooked) Quinoa Alternative: Use cooked rice for a different grain option.1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Substitution: Chicken thighs or cooked shredded chicken can be used.2 cups Broccoli Florets Substitution: Cauliflower or mixed vegetables can be used for variety. Equipment medium saucepan9x13 inch baking dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté finely chopped yellow onion and minced garlic for 3–5 minutes until soft and fragrant. Gradually whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, then slowly pour in 2 cups of lower-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of whole milk. Bring to a simmer (about 5 minutes), stirring constantly until thickened. Stir in seasonings and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, cut 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, seasoning them generously with kosher salt and black pepper. In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread out the uncooked quinoa evenly as the base for your Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake.Add the seasoned chicken pieces and 2 cups of broccoli florets to the baking dish over the quinoa. Pour the melted cheese sauce over the entire mixture, ensuring everything is well-coated. Stir gently but thoroughly to distribute the sauce evenly across the chicken, quinoa, and broccoli, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, removing the foil halfway through to allow gentle steaming and prevent excess moisture. Check for doneness at the 45-minute mark; the quinoa should be tender, and the chicken thoroughly cooked. If needed, bake an additional 5-10 minutes until everything is perfectly cooked.Once fully baked, remove the casserole from the oven and give it a good stir. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for that delicious, melty layer. Return it to the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, creating a beautiful finish for your Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg NotesEnsure all ingredients are well-coated in the cheese sauce to prevent dryness. Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes after baking to enhance flavors and make it easier to serve. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
