Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Skillet or pan for cooking chicken
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Aluminum foil (for covering)
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast diced or shredded
- 4 cups broccoli florets steamed or blanched
- 1 cup Greek yogurt plain, non-fat
- 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese or any cheese you prefer
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs or Panko breadcrumbs optional, for topping
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray for greasing the dish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, cook the diced or shredded chicken over medium heat until fully cooked and lightly browned. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste. Set aside.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are tender but still slightly crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Drain any excess water and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, chicken broth, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste. This will form the creamy base of the casserole.
- Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer the cooked chicken and broccoli. Pour the Greek yogurt sauce over the top and gently mix to combine. Spread the mixture evenly across the dish.
- Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top of the casserole. If you’d like a crispy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.