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Healthy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

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This comforting weeknight meal combines tender chicken, fiber-rich brown rice, and vibrant broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Greek yogurt and reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup create a velvety texture, making this high-protein casserole a satisfying choice for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 tsp salt
  • 3 cups cooked brown or white rice
  • 4 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) reduced-sodium condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 0.75 cup 2% milk
  • 0.5 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 1.5 cups shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Sauté for 6–8 minutes, until golden and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
  3. Prepare the creamy sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
  4. Combine the ingredients: Fold the cooked chicken, rice, and steamed broccoli into the sauce mixture. Mix until everything is thoroughly coated.
  5. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top.
  6. Bake until golden: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the sauce bubbles and the cheese turns golden. Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra color, if desired.
  7. Rest and serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving so the sauce can thicken slightly.

Notes

  • Shred cheddar cheese from a block for better melting.
  • Do not overcook the broccoli while steaming; it will soften further in the oven.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra flavor, if desired.
  • If the casserole seems dry, add an extra splash of milk before the final baking stage.
  • Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave.
  • Add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra vegetables.
  • For a crunchy topping, sprinkle whole-wheat panko breadcrumbs over the casserole before baking.

Nutrition