Friday, February 28, 2014

Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole


Growing up, my family didn't eat many casseroles. It wasn't until very recently that I finally tried green bean casserole (before then it was just a myth I heard about on Campbell's soup commercials). And while I was glad to finally experience this amazing dish that I'd heard people talk about for years, I'm disappointed to report that it wasn't that amazing: the green beans were soggy and there wasn't a lot of flavor. I did like the little fried onion bits, but I mean, who doesn't like those?



My perception of casseroles is that they're unhealthy and kind of bland. Maybe it's just me. I know, there are some great casseroles and they're not all unhealthy and bland....case in point: this casserole. I added lots of spices and nutritious ingredients, so this casserole is flavorful and healthy! (adapted from this recipe)



Chicken Quinoa and Broccoli Casserole

Yield: 6 servings | Prep time: 15 minutes | Total time: 65 minutes

Ingredients:
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup skim milk
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 1.5 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1.5 tsp. onion powder
  • 1.5 tsp. thyme
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
  1. Preheat oven to 400ºF. Grease a 9x13 baking dish (do a good job with this so all your casserole goodness doesn't stick to the sides).
  2. In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth and 1/2 cup of milk to a low boil. Whisk in flour, 1 tsp. of each garlic powder, onion powder and thyme, and remaining 1/2 cup of milk. Continue whisking until a the mixture forms a creamy, smooth sauce.
  3. Mix the sauce with water and quinoa. Pour the quinoa mixture into the prepared baking dish, then lay chicken strips on top. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 tsp. of each garlic powder, onion powder and thyme. Cover with foil and cook for 25 minutes.
  4. After 25 minutes, uncover and stir. Then cook uncovered for another 20 minutes.
  5. While casserole is in the over, steam broccoli for 1-2 minutes, until the broccoli turns bright green. Run the broccoli under cold water then set it aside. 
  6. Remove the casserole from the oven and add the broccoli. You can also add a little extra water (up to 1/2 cup if you want a creamier consistency). Sprinkle cheese on top of the casserole and bake, uncovered, for another 5 minutes.

Nutritional information per serving:
Calories: 430
Total fat: 12 grams
Carbohydrates: 33 grams
Fiber: 4 grams
Protein: 45 grams
Weight Watchers points: 10


Enjoy and thanks for reading!

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