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Healthy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

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4 from 13 reviews

This Healthy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice in a cheesy, flavorful sauce made with Greek yogurt and cream cheese. Baked to perfection, it’s an easy one-dish meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep, offering a healthier twist on a classic casserole without sacrificing taste.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Creamy Sauce

  • 1/2 cup full-fat Greek yogurt (4 ounces)
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (4 ounces)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (use less for less spicy)
  • salt and pepper, to taste

Main Ingredients

  • 5 cups broccoli florets (400 grams)
  • 4 heaping cups shredded chicken (1 pound)
  • 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed (uncooked)
  • 2 cups bone broth or chicken broth
  • 1 heaping cup shredded cheddar cheese (3 ounces)

Toppings

  • fresh parsley
  • hot sauce
  • red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a bowl or measuring cup, combine the Greek yogurt, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well until the ingredients are fully blended into a smooth sauce.
  3. Assemble Casserole: In the greased baking dish, layer the ingredients by spreading the broccoli florets evenly across the bottom, followed by shredded chicken and rice. Pour the cream cheese mixture and bone broth over the layers. Season with extra salt and pepper if needed. Mix gently within the dish to evenly distribute the ingredients, then press down slightly so that everything is mostly covered by the liquid.
  4. Bake Covered: Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This initial baking allows the rice and vegetables to start cooking and absorb the flavors.
  5. Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil carefully and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes uncovered. This step helps the liquid to mostly absorb and the top to set.
  6. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Slice into 8 equal portions. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra red pepper flakes, or hot sauce as desired before serving. Enjoy your healthy and hearty meal!

Notes

  • Ensure the rice is rinsed before using to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
  • You can substitute bone broth with low-sodium chicken broth if preferred.
  • For a milder version, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • To make this dish dairy-free, substitute cream cheese and cheddar with plant-based alternatives.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Find it online: https://monicarecipes.com/healthy-chicken-broccoli-rice-casserole-recipe/