Name: Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked quinoa; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced; 3 cups steamed broccoli florets; 1 egg; 1/2 cup chicken stock; 2 cups shredded cheese, divided; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 36 reviews

If you’re searching for a wholesome, satisfying dish that combines vibrant greens with a hearty grain and a cheesy punch, this Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. It effortlessly brings together tender broccoli, fluffy quinoa, and savory chicken under a golden, melted cheese topping. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is packed with flavor, nutrition, and a comforting texture that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of cooked quinoa inside a black electric rice cooker, showing one layer of small, round grains in light beige color. A white plastic spoon scoops up some fluffy quinoa from the center, with the quinoa's fluffy texture and slightly translucent grain edges clearly visible. The black inner pot contrasts with the pale quinoa, and the whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are deceptively simple yet incredibly essential, each playing a key role in building layers of texture, flavor, and nutrition in this dish. From the fluffy quinoa to the tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, every element comes together beautifully.

2 cups cooked quinoa: The fluffy, nutty base that adds protein and a lovely texture to the casserole.
2 cups cooked chicken: Adds savory depth and heartiness – leftover roasted chicken works perfectly.
3 cups steamed broccoli: Brightens the dish with color and offers a slightly crunchy, fresh vegetable bite.
1 egg: Acts as a binder, giving the casserole structure and helping it set beautifully.
1/2 cup chicken stock: Keeps everything moist and infuses a subtle savory flavor throughout.
2 cups shredded cheese (divided): Provides that irresistible gooey, melty, golden top and richness inside.
1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a hint of aromatic herbiness to balance the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a mild earthiness, elevating the overall taste profile.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: A touch of mild heat to wake up the palate.

How to Make Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa

Start by cooking your quinoa according to the package directions. Whether you prefer the stovetop, rice cooker, or Instant Pot, the goal is fluffy quinoa without any excess moisture. This creates the perfect base for your casserole by keeping it light and chewy.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

While the quinoa cooks, steam the broccoli florets until they’re tender but still vibrantly green, about 3-5 minutes. This step ensures the broccoli retains its beautiful color and a slight crunch that plays off the softness of the quinoa.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients Together

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a deep 9 x 9 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, egg, chicken stock, half of the shredded cheese, and all the herbs and seasonings. Mix gently but thoroughly so every bite is bursting with flavor. Then press this mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top. Cover the dish and bake it for 40 minutes. Afterward, uncover and let it bake an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese top turns beautifully golden and bubbly. This final step ensures a perfectly melted and slightly crispy cheese crust.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let the casserole cool a bit before portioning into bowls. This Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe is ready to bring comfort and deliciousness to your table with every forkful.

How to Serve Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe

The image shows four frames of broccoli cooking. The first frame has fresh green broccoli pieces with bright crowns and light green stalks spread out separately in a dark pan on a stove with a white marbled surface underneath. The second frame shows the same broccoli inside the pan but covered with a clear glass lid, steam visible inside. The third frame shows the broccoli now a little softer and darker green in the pan without the lid. The fourth frame shows the cooked broccoli piled in a white bowl, looking bright and fresh, sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate your Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe by adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and a little kick. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can also brighten all the hearty flavors wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This casserole is quite complete on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted root vegetables can turn it into a gourmet meal. A simple side of crusty bread also complements the cheesy texture perfectly for dipping up every last bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a personal-sized treat. Alternatively, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts on top before baking for added crunch and a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled and covered well to preserve that fresh, cheesy flavor and prevent dryness.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for easiest reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers by placing them in an oven-safe dish covered with foil at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions but watch carefully to avoid drying out – adding a splash of chicken stock before reheating helps maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding extra broccoli or incorporating protein-rich beans for a vegetarian-friendly version with plenty of nutrition.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

Cheddar or a mild mozzarella melt wonderfully here, providing that gooey texture and rich flavor. Feel free to mix cheeses or use your favorite blend for a personalized touch.

Is it necessary to cook the quinoa beforehand?

Yes, pre-cooking the quinoa ensures the casserole has the perfect texture. Raw quinoa won’t bake properly and could remain crunchy or gritty inside the dish.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

You bet! Prepare the mixture up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to a day. Then bake fresh before serving to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

This Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken stock and seasonings. Quinoa is a great gluten-free grain alternative for casseroles.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting and nourishing about this Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe, and I can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a wholesome dish to brighten your weeknight meals, this casserole is an absolute must-try. The blend of cheesy goodness, tender broccoli, and hearty quinoa makes every bite a celebration of simple, wholesome flavors. Give it a go – I promise, it’ll become a favorite in your recipe collection too!

Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need