Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Casserole

Name: Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed; 1 cup low-fat sour cream; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Healthy Comfort Foods

I love whipping up this Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole when I want a comforting dish that's packed with nutrients. This recipe combines tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all baked together in a creamy sauce that's both light and satisfying. As a family favorite, it’s a great way to sneak in those greens and still enjoy a hearty meal. Plus, it’s simple to prepare ahead of time, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-02-24T02:33:37.250Z

When I first tried making this Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole, I wanted something that would satisfy my cravings but still be nutritious. The blend of flavors that come together during baking is just delightful. The secret is using a light cream sauce that complements the chicken without weighing it down, allowing the bright broccoli flavors to shine through.

After several attempts, I found that adding a sprinkle of cheese on top creates a beautiful crust that the family loves. Baking it just right keeps everything moist and flavorful, making it a dish I proudly serve at gatherings.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with protein and veggies for a wholesome meal
Comforting and creamy texture that satisfies
Easily adaptable for meal prep or leftovers

Ingredient Insights

The combination of low-fat sour cream and low-sodium chicken broth in this casserole not only helps create a creamy base, but also keeps the dish light and nutritious. Sour cream adds richness and tang, while the broth provides moisture without the excess fat found in traditional cream-based sauces. I often opt for a homemade broth when possible, as it brings depth of flavor and allows you to control the sodium content more effectively.

Chicken plays a pivotal role in this casserole, offering a protein boost that makes the dish filling while allowing it to remain healthy. Using pre-cooked chicken not only reduces cooking time but also infuses the casserole with a comforting roasted flavor that complements the steamed broccoli perfectly. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken is a quick and easy alternative that still delivers on taste.

Prep and Storage Tips

Assembling this casserole ahead of time is a game-changer for busy weeknights. You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just be aware that the breadcrumbs may lose some of their crunch; to combat this, consider toasting them lightly before topping your casserole for added texture. Simply bake the breadcrumbs in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, which will enhance their flavor and crispiness.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. Reheating is straightforward; just place it in the microwave for a few minutes or cover with foil and reheat in the oven until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions wrapped tightly to preserve flavor and texture. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as previously described.

Flavor Variations

This Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is quite versatile, allowing for various ingredient swaps to cater to different tastes or dietary needs. For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked quinoa or brown rice to the mixture for added fiber. You can also substitute the chicken for turkey or chickpeas for a vegetarian option, maintaining the same cooking times and methods for a balanced meal.

To spice things up, add some diced red pepper or sprinkle in your favorite herbs and spices, like thyme or paprika, for additional flavor layers. A dash of lemon juice before serving can brighten up the dish, enhancing the overall taste, while still keeping it healthy. Feel free to get creative; the base recipe is just a canvas for your culinary imagination.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients to make this delicious casserole:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
3 cups broccoli florets, steamed
1 cup low-fat sour cream
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs

Make sure everything is prepped and ready before you start assembling.

Instructions

Let's get started on making this delicious casserole!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Assemble the Casserole

Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.

Add the Topping

Top with whole wheat breadcrumbs to create a crunchy layer.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your healthy meal!

Enjoy this casserole warm straight from the oven or save some for later!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, mix in some herbs like thyme or rosemary, or use leftover roasted veggies for variation.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or some roasted vegetables on the side, adding a colorful and nutritious element to your meal. If you want to keep it light, serve with steamed brown rice or whole grain pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. It is a great balance that complements the casserole nicely, enhancing the overall dining experience.

For a complete family night, consider doubling the recipe and using a larger baking dish. This not only feeds a crowd but also provides great leftovers to enjoy throughout the week. Don’t forget to set out your favorite hot sauce or homemade salsa for an added kick, allowing everyone to customize their servings!

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your casserole isn't bubbling up as expected during baking, it may be due to an insufficient amount of liquid in the mixture. Ensure that the chicken broth is included and adjust as necessary, adding an extra splash to achieve that desired creamy consistency. The bubbling and browning should happen around the 30-minute mark, so keep an eye out for those golden edges as a visual cue.

Another common issue is the crumb topping becoming soggy rather than crunchy. To avoid this, make sure to properly toast your breadcrumbs as mentioned, and if using fresh breadcrumbs, consider a light sprinkle of olive oil over them before baking. This will help achieve a delightful crunch while keeping the topping intact throughout the cooking process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to serve.