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Savory Broccoli Quinoa Bake Delight

This Savory Broccoli Quinoa Bake Delight combines comfort and nutrition in a delicious casserole. Packed with protein and vibrant flavors, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked quinoa
  • 2 cups cooked chicken
  • 3 cups steamed broccoli
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup chicken stock
  • 2 cups cheese (shredded; divided in half)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  1. Start by cooking 2 cups of quinoa according to package directions. This usually involves rinsing the quinoa and combining it with 4 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushiness.
  2. While the quinoa is cooking, bring ½ inch of water to a boil in a large pot. Add 3 cups of broccoli florets, cover, and steam for 3-5 minutes until they turn bright green and are tender but still have a slight crunch. Overcooking will result in mushy broccoli, so keep an eye on it!
  3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a deep 9 x 9 inch baking dish with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, 2 cups of cooked chicken (shredded), the steamed broccoli, 1 beaten egg, ½ cup of chicken stock, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and all the spices (basil, oregano, salt, and pepper). Mix until well combined, ensuring the egg is evenly distributed throughout.
  5. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, pressing it down gently to ensure even cooking. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top.
  6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
  7. Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Portion into bowls, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this nutritious dish!

Nutrition

Keywords: Don't skip the egg as it acts as a binder. You can substitute quinoa with cooked brown rice or use rotisserie chicken for convenience. For a vegan option, consider using a flax egg and dairy-free cheese.