Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake Recipe

If you love comforting casseroles that bring together wholesome ingredients and rich, cheesy flavors, then this Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake Recipe is going to become one of your all-time favorites. It perfectly balances tender chicken, nutritious quinoa, and vibrant broccoli all enveloped in a creamy, sharp cheddar cheese sauce that melts beautifully on top. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also boasts a nourishing twist thanks to quinoa, making it a hearty dinner that everyone will ask for again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun with this dish. Each one plays an essential role, from creating that velvety cheese sauce to adding texture and body to the bake. Fresh produce, pantry staples, and carefully selected seasonings combine to craft a meal that’s both simple to prepare and satisfying to eat.

• Butter, 2 Tbsp.: Adds richness and helps soften the onion and garlic at the start.
• Extra-virgin olive oil, 1 Tbsp.: Provides a subtle fruity note and helps balance the butter’s flavor.
• Chopped yellow onion or shallots, ½ cup: Offers a mild sweetness that forms the flavor base.
• Minced garlic cloves, 3: Gives a fragrant punch that enhances all savory elements.
• All-purpose flour, 3 Tbsp.: Thickens the sauce to a creamy consistency without clumping.
• Lower-sodium chicken broth, 2 cups: Ensures flavorful moisture and keeps saltiness in check.
• Whole milk, 1 cup: Brings creaminess and helps balance the cheese’s sharpness.
• Poultry seasoning, 1 tsp.: Adds a touch of comforting herbs like sage and thyme.
• Kosher salt, 1 tsp. divided: Enhances natural flavors without overwhelming.
• Black pepper, 1 tsp. divided: Provides gentle heat and depth throughout the dish.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup divided: Offers bold, melty cheesiness that ties everything together.
• Dry (uncooked) quinoa, 1 cup: A protein-rich, gluten-free grain that soaks up all the delicious sauce flavors.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts, 1 lb.: Supplies lean protein with tender, juicy bites after baking.
• Broccoli florets, 4 cups: Adds vibrant color, crunch, and a boost of nutrients.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Start by heating butter and olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. This combo creates a flavorful fat base for softening the chopped onion and minced garlic, which cook gently until fragrant and tender—usually about 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook it fully for 2 minutes; this step is crucial to remove any raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and whole milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it gently thicken while stirring to avoid lumps. Finish the sauce by adding poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until creamy and smooth. Then, set it aside off the heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken, Quinoa, and Broccoli

Cut the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces and season them with the remaining salt and black pepper for even flavor. Lightly grease a 4-quart baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then add the dry quinoa to the dish, followed by the chicken pieces and the fresh broccoli florets. Each component brings its unique texture: quinoa adds fluffiness, chicken stays juicy, and broccoli gives a fresh crunch.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

Pour the luscious cheese sauce over the quinoa, chicken, and broccoli mixture. Gently stir everything to make sure the quinoa is mostly submerged and coated in that creamy goodness. Place the dish in a preheated 375ºF oven to bake for about 45 minutes, stirring halfway through. This helps even cooking and ensures all flavors meld perfectly. The quinoa and chicken should be fully cooked and tender by the end of this time. If not quite done, simply stir and bake for a few more minutes until ready.

Step 4: Finish with a Golden Cheese Topping

Remove the bake from the oven and give it another gentle stir. Sprinkle the remaining half cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly on top. Switch your oven to broil and place the dish back in for 3 to 5 minutes, watching carefully until the cheese bubbles, turns golden, and creates an irresistible crust. This final touch adds a beautiful texture contrast and extra cheesy flavor boost.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes elevate this bake from delicious to gourmet. Freshly chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a hint of freshness. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce can bring in an exciting kick that complements the creamy cheese. For an extra burst of flavor and texture, toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts are wonderful sprinkled on top right before serving.

Side Dishes

This bake is a hearty one-dish meal, but pairing it with light, crisp sides can balance it beautifully. Consider a simple mixed green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette to add bright acidity. Or steam some green beans or asparagus seasoned with a touch of garlic and lemon to bring extra vegetable variety without overpowering the main dish. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also make great accompaniments if you want something extra satisfying on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests or family, serve the Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake Recipe in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. You can also scoop generous portions into shallow bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, adding elegant height and color. For casual gatherings, bake the dish in a colorful ceramic casserole dish, letting everyone dig in family-style. Lastly, a sprinkle of paprika or smoked paprika on top can add warmth in both flavor and appearance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake makes for a fantastic next-day meal. Transfer any uneaten portions into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. When stored properly, the flavors deepen, and the texture remains wonderfully creamy, making reheating a delight rather than a chore.

Freezing

This dish also freezes very well, which makes it perfect for meal prep or busy nights. Wrap the cooled bake tightly with plastic wrap and foil or pack into freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing much of its deliciousness. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the bake in an oven-safe dish and warm in a 350ºF oven until heated through, about 20 to 25 minutes. Stir halfway to promote even warming. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works too, but the oven method helps maintain the creamy texture and prevents the cheese from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa in this recipe?

Yes, you can swap quinoa for brown rice; however, keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook and will change the texture. If using brown rice, it’s best to use pre-cooked or partially cooked rice to ensure everything finishes baking at the same time.

Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! The Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake Recipe is fantastic for meal prep because it reheats well and maintains both flavor and texture. Make a big batch to enjoy several meals throughout the week.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely. Simply skip the chicken and add more broccoli or other favorite veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers. You might also add plant-based protein such as tofu or chickpeas to keep it satisfying.

What type of cheese works best if I don’t have sharp cheddar?

While sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor, you can use other types like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different cheesy profile. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well to keep that creamy texture.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

This recipe is mostly gluten-free except for the all-purpose flour used as a thickener. You can substitute the flour with a gluten-free option like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to keep the sauce thick and creamy.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the cozy, satisfying feeling of digging into a warm, cheesy casserole like our Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Quinoa Bake Recipe. It’s comfort food meets nutrition, and every bite is full of love and flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or preparing meals ahead, this recipe offers ease, taste, and wholesome goodness all in one dish. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it in your recipe box!

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