When you’re whipping up a comforting dish like healthier broccoli chicken casserole, it’s smart to think about what complements it well. This casserole is rich and creamy with plenty of fresh veggies, so balancing it out with lighter sides can create a delightful meal.
Here are some great ideas:
Simple Garden Salad: A mix of greens with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the casserole.
Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: The buttery texture and garlicky aroma of warm bread serve as a perfect companion, mopping up any creamy goodness left on the plate.
Steamed Green Beans: These add a bit of crunch and color. Just a sprinkle of salt will elevate its taste without overpowering the casserole.
There’s something nostalgic about casseroles, isn’t there? They evoke memories of family dinners, holidays, and cozy nights at home. Today, I’m here to share my spin on a classic: healthier broccoli chicken casserole. This dish isn’t just packed with flavor; it’s a wholesome feast that makes use of fresh ingredients and delivers a comforting warmth.
As a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, my journey has led me to create recipes that don’t sacrifice taste for health. This casserole is one of my favorites, combining tender chicken, crunchy broccoli, and a creamy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. Plus, it’s adaptable. You can tweak it to fit dietary needs or personal preferences. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into a nourishing dish full of delightful flavors.
What is Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole?
Healthier broccoli chicken casserole is a comforting dish that combines chicken, broccoli, rice, and a creamy sauce to create a warm, satisfying meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility and health-conscious focus. Instead of relying on heavy cream, I use low-fat options and fresh ingredients. This retains the dish’s creamy texture while making it lighter and more suitable for those watching their fat intake. It’s a full meal in one, perfect for a family dinner. So, if you’re craving comfort food that fills you up without weighing you down, this casserole is your answer.
You will also like the following Dinner recipes!
- Copycat Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup
- How to make Cabbage Sausage Potato Soup
- Vegetarian Vegan Pho
Why This Recipe Works
You might wonder why healthier broccoli chicken casserole stands out among countless recipes. Allow me to break it down for you.
Nutrient-Dense Ingredients: This dish showcases the power of whole foods. With broccoli and chicken as the stars, you’re getting protein, vitamins, and minerals. Broccoli, rich in fiber and vitamins, complements the lean chicken perfectly.
Versatile Preparation: Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this casserole can be made in advance and stored. Bake it fresh or reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Simple and Accessible: The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. With easily accessible ingredients, I can throw this together without a long shopping list. On a busy day, this is a lifesaver.
Deliciously Satisfying: The flavors in this dish work harmoniously. The creaminess of the sauce combined with the sharpness of cheddar cheese makes each bite an enjoyable experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
Gathering ingredients is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need for healthier broccoli chicken casserole:
- 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, chopped)
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a tangy option)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 2–3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 10.5 oz can condensed cream of chicken soup
- ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 ¼ cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 tsp Italian herb blend
For the crunchy topping:
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or buttery breadcrumbs)
- 2 Tbsp melted butter
How To Make This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole
Cooking can be a delightful adventure when you have a straightforward plan. Here’s how to create this casserole step by step:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the broccoli into florets and dice the chicken if you are using raw breasts. Having everything prepped makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season it with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, skip this step and shred the chicken instead.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, chicken stock, whole milk, cream of chicken soup, and Italian herb blend. Stir until well blended. This will be your creamy sauce!
Step 4: Combine with Other Ingredients
In the skillet with the chicken, add the cooked rice, broccoli florets, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the sauce over the chicken and rice mixture, stirring gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the casserole mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
Step 6: Add Toppings
In a separate bowl, combine crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole, adding a delightful crunch on top.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Tips & Tricks
Here are some great pointers to keep in mind while making your casserole:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli not only tastes better but also retains more nutrients compared to frozen varieties.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to add more paprika or even some red pepper flakes if you want a kick!
Storage: If you’re making this ahead of time, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge.
Experiment with Cheese: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Add More Veggies: Sneak in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added nutrition and color.
Nutrition Information
A single serving of this casserole contains approximately:
The balance of protein from chicken, fiber from broccoli, and carbohydrates from rice makes this a well-rounded meal.
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
To store your casserole leftovers, simply allow it to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator, where it will last for about 3-4 days. If you want to extend its life, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn. Reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to dig in again!
What Sides Would Complement Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole?
When serving healthier broccoli chicken casserole, consider these sides:
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These little gems get crispy when roasted. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and lemon juice for a bright flavor contrast.
Quinoa Salad: Light, fluffy quinoa mixed with cucumbers and tomatoes creates a refreshing complement to the creamy casserole.
Garlicky Spinach: Sauté fresh spinach with minced garlic. This dish adds nutrients and a pop of color to your meal.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
Sometimes, you need to improvise. Here are some easy alternatives:
Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream: Yogurt provides similar creaminess with added protein. Go for plain to keep the flavors balanced.
Cauliflower Rice Instead of White Rice: For a low-carb option, swap in cauliflower rice. It cooks faster and adds extra nutrients.
Coconut Milk for Whole Milk: This gives a unique flavor twist and adds a hint of tropical creaminess.
Chicken Broth for Chicken Stock: They are generally interchangeable, so no need to stress if you’re out of stock!
Equipment
- large skillet
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
- 2 –3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 10.5 oz can condensed cream of chicken soup
- ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 ¼ cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 tsp Italian herb blend
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 Tbsp melted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the broccoli into florets and dice the chicken if you are using raw breasts. Having everything prepped makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season it with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, skip this step and shred the chicken instead.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, chicken stock, whole milk, cream of chicken soup, and Italian herb blend. Stir until well blended. This will be your creamy sauce!
Step 4: Combine with Other Ingredients
- In the skillet with the chicken, add the cooked rice, broccoli florets, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the sauce over the chicken and rice mixture, stirring gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
- Pour the casserole mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
Step 6: Add Toppings
- In a separate bowl, combine crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole, adding a delightful crunch on top.
Step 7: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
- Once done, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli not only tastes better but also retains more nutrients compared to frozen varieties.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to add more paprika or even some red pepper flakes if you want a kick!
- Storage: If you’re making this ahead of time, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Experiment with Cheese: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Add More Veggies: Sneak in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added nutrition and color.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole with whole wheat pasta instead of rice?
Yes! Whole wheat pasta can give a nice texture and flavor while boosting the fiber content.
How can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute dairy ingredients with almond milk, coconut cream, and dairy-free cheese.
Is it safe to freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before freezing it in a suitable container.
What can I do to make this casserole spicier?
Adding jalapeños or diced spicy peppers to the mix, or kicking up the paprika can do wonders.
How long will this casserole last in the refrigerator?
It’s best consumed within 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Definitely! However, be sure to thaw it beforehand and squeeze out excess moisture to keep the casserole from getting soggy.
Conclusion
There you have it: a deep dive into the world of healthier broccoli chicken casserole. It’s more than just a comforting dish; it’s a versatile meal that can fit into different diets and preferences. Whether you’re trying to take a healthier route or just want a warm, nourishing meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare, this casserole has your back.
So gather your ingredients, round up your loved ones, and create something memorable. The kitchen doesn’t have to be daunting; it can be a place of creativity and joy. Enjoy your well-deserved meal!