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Healthy Chicken Broccoli Casserole (From Scratch)

This creamy, comforting casserole is made entirely from scratch without canned soups. Packed with lean protein, tender broccoli, and a light cheesy sauce, it’s the ultimate wholesome weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or diced
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets about 1 large head
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or regular milk
  • ¼ cup whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • Cooking spray for the baking dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion until soft, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux, stirring constantly.
  6. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
  7. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  8. Stir in the salt, pepper, paprika, and ¾ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
  9. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the Greek yogurt until smooth.
  10. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, blanched broccoli, and the prepared sauce. Mix well.
  11. Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  12. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
  13. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  14. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (1:1 ratio) instead of wheat flour.
  • Add a crunchy topping: Mix ½ cup of whole wheat panko breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese before baking.
  • Meal prep friendly: Assemble the casserole completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

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