Description
This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole wraps all the classic cozy flavors you love in a lighter, feel-good package. Tender chicken, wholesome brown rice, and bright broccoli are baked in a creamy Greek yogurt sauce and topped with just enough cheddar to feel indulgent without weighing you down.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice, rinsed
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (preferably 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Nonstick cooking spray or a little extra oil, for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for another 3–4 minutes, until they are bright green and just starting to become tender. Remove from heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked brown rice, chicken broth, Greek yogurt, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the sautéed broccoli mixture to the bowl and stir until everything is evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
- If using, sprinkle the whole wheat breadcrumbs evenly over the top, then add the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for 15–20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly, the rice is tender, and the cheese on top is melted and golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly, then scoop and serve warm.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time just remove the skin for a lighter result.
- Be sure to use uncooked brown rice, as it will absorb the broth and help create the creamy texture while baking.
- If your oven runs cooler, you may need an extra 5–10 minutes of bake time for the rice to fully soften.
- Taste the mixture before baking and adjust salt and pepper to your preference, keeping in mind that the cheese also adds saltiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g (approx.)
- Sodium: 480 mg (approx., varies by broth and cheese)
- Fat: 11 g (approx.)
- Saturated Fat: 4 g (approx.)
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g (approx.)
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g (approx.)
- Fiber: 3 g (approx.)
- Protein: 26 g (approx.)
- Cholesterol: 70 mg (approx.)
Keywords: healthier broccoli chicken casserole, Greek yogurt casserole, brown rice chicken bake, light comfort food, family dinner