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 minutesIngredients:
- 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:
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- After 25 minutes, uncover and stir. Then cook uncovered for another 20 minutes.
- 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.
- 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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