Introduction
Welcome to a delightful recipe that brings together wholesome ingredients and cheesy comfort in one dish! This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, offering a nutritious meal that everyone will love. Packed with protein, veggies, and oozing with cheese, this bake is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, cheddar cheese, Greek yogurt, milk, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and olive oil, mixing until the breadcrumbs are coated. Sprinkle them evenly over the quinoa mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dish is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a different twist.
- This dish can be prepared in advance; simply assemble it, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like thyme or basil into the mix.
Cooking Techniques
The key to a perfect quinoa bake lies in cooking the quinoa properly and ensuring the ingredients meld together beautifully. Cooking the quinoa in chicken broth adds depth of flavor, while the slow bake allows everything to come together in a creamy, cheesy hug of goodness.
FAQ
- Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa? Yes, but cooking times may vary.
- Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers for up to three months.
- What can I serve with this dish? A light salad serves as a great side.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa Bake is a wonderful way to enjoy a balanced meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re serving it for family dinners or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a guaranteed hit that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!