As a busy working parent, I’m always looking for quick, healthy meals. This Chicken, Broccoli, and Cottage Cheese Casserole is perfect. It’s packed with protein, using lean chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cottage cheese. It’s a satisfying dinner that’s easy to make and full of flavor.
Key Takeaways
- Protein-packed meal with lean chicken and cottage cheese
- Healthy casserole featuring fresh broccoli
- Easy recipe with just a few simple ingredients
- Yields a 9×13 inch casserole that serves 8 people
- Customizable with various vegetable substitutions
Quick Guide to This Protein-Packed Casserole
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this Chicken, Broccoli, and Cottage Cheese Casserole. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s full of flavor and nutrients. It’s perfect for your next family dinner or meal prep.
Preparation Time and Servings
This casserole is quick to make. It takes about 45 minutes to prepare, including cooking. It serves 6 people, making one 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Key Nutritional Benefits
This casserole is a protein powerhouse. Each serving has 31 grams of protein. It’s made with chicken, cottage cheese, and cheddar cheese for extra nutrition. Plus, it has a whole bag of cauliflower rice for fiber and vitamins.
Equipment Needed
To make this cheesy chicken bake, you’ll need a few tools. You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking dish, a large mixing bowl, and a skillet. These tools will help you make a delicious family dinner casserole.
“This casserole is a game-changer for my meal prep routine. It’s so easy to make, and the leftovers are just as tasty!”
Essential Ingredients for Your Cheesy Chicken Bake
To make a tasty chicken and spinach casserole or broccoli casserole, you need the right ingredients. Start with 1.5-2 lbs of chicken breasts for the base. Then, add 1 head or 1 lb of fresh broccoli florets for color and crunch.
For creaminess, use 1-2 cups of cottage cheese. Eggs help hold the casserole together. Top it with shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan cheese for a gooey cheese layer. Add pesto and cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.
Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. For a spicy touch, sprinkle chili pepper flakes. With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious chicken and spinach casserole or broccoli casserole.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 1.5-2 lbs |
| Broccoli | 1 head or 1 lb |
| Cottage Cheese | 1-2 cups |
| Eggs | 2-3 |
| Shredded Mozzarella, Cheddar, or Parmesan Cheese | 2-3 cups |
| Pesto | 2-3 tablespoons |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 1 cup |
| Olive Oil | 2-3 tablespoons |
| Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder | To Taste |
| Chili Pepper Flakes (Optional) | 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon |
With these ingredients, you’re set to make a delicious chicken and spinach casserole or broccoli casserole. It’s sure to please your taste buds.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Making the creamy chicken, broccoli, and cottage cheese casserole is easy. It’s a great way to get a protein-packed meal. Follow this guide to make it perfectly every time.
Preparing the Broccoli
Begin by getting the broccoli ready. Boil water, then add broccoli florets for 3 minutes. This keeps it green and crunchy.
After, put the broccoli in an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain and set it aside.
Mixing the Protein Components
In a big bowl, mix eggs, cottage cheese, and pesto. This mix is the base of your casserole.
Creating the Perfect Cheese Blend
For the cheese, mix mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan. These cheeses melt well, making the dish creamy.
Then, cook chicken cubes in olive oil until they’re brown. Put the broccoli, protein mix, and chicken in a dish. Top with the cheese blend.
Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes. It’s done when it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted. Serve hot and enjoy!
Chicken, Broccoli, and Cottage Cheese Casserole
Get ready to enjoy a tasty and healthy chicken, broccoli, and cottage cheese casserole! It’s a great meal for any weeknight. The mix of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cottage cheese makes it a hit.
To make this healthy casserole, preheat your oven to 375°F. Use a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it. Start by placing broccoli florets in an even layer. Then, add the shredded chicken, about 1 cup.
Spread the cottage cheese mixture over the chicken. Don’t forget to sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake for 35-60 minutes, until a knife inserted comes out clean. For a golden top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked Chicken | 1 cup, shredded |
| Broccoli Florets | 3 cups, chopped |
| Cottage Cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Cheddar Cheese | 4 ounces, shredded |
This chicken, broccoli, and cottage cheese casserole is a family favorite. It’s a delicious main dish or side. Enjoy the perfect mix of protein, veggies, and cheese in every bite!
Tips for the Perfect Creamy and Delicious Result
To get your creamy and delicious cheesy chicken bake just right, watch the temperature and texture closely. A few tweaks can make this healthy and tasty casserole even better.
Temperature Control
The baking temperature is key for the perfect texture. Use a glass dish and bake at 325°F for the best results. This lower heat keeps the edges moist and the center creamy.
Texture Management
For a smooth, creamy dish, focus on the cottage cheese. Make sure to drain any extra liquid before mixing. Or, blend it briefly in a food processor for a smoother texture.
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set, making each bite full of creamy goodness.
“The secret to a truly outstanding cheesy chicken bake lies in the small details. By paying attention to temperature and texture, you’ll elevate your dish to new heights of flavor and satisfaction.”
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
This chicken, broccoli, and cottage cheese casserole is packed with nutrients. It has about 225 calories, 11 grams of protein, 15 grams of fat, and 13 grams of carbs. It’s also full of vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, calcium, and potassium.
The protein from chicken and cottage cheese is great for muscles and keeps you full. Broccoli and other veggies add fiber, antioxidants, and more nutrients. This healthy casserole is perfect for a meal that’s good for your health.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 225 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Protein | 11g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 25mg |
| Vitamin A | 2623 IU |
| Vitamin C | 73mg |
| Folate | 76mcg |
| Sodium | 331mg |
| Calcium | 215mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
| Magnesium | 34mg |
| Potassium | 412mg |
This protein-packed meal is perfect for any meal. It’s lean, has complex carbs, and lots of nutrients. Enjoy this healthy casserole for a balanced diet and better health.
Customization Options and Variations
The beauty of a chicken and broccoli (or spinach) casserole is its versatility. You can change up the veggies, try different cheeses, or meet dietary needs. This recipe is perfect for making it your own.
Vegetable Substitutions
While the recipe uses broccoli or spinach, you can try other veggies. Here are some tasty alternatives:
- Zucchini, diced or sliced
- Cauliflower florets
- Diced bell peppers
- Chopped kale or swiss chard
Cheese Alternatives
Want to change the cheese? You can swap cottage cheese for other creamy options. Consider these:
- Ricotta cheese
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Cream cheese or a blend of cheeses
For a vegetarian dish, skip the chicken and add more veggies. You can also make your own Alfredo sauce instead of using store-bought.
“The great thing about this casserole is that it’s adaptable to your personal preferences and dietary needs. Get creative with the ingredients and make it your own!”
Storage and Meal Prep Guidelines
The Chicken, Broccoli, and Cottage Cheese Casserole is a tasty meal for families. It’s also great for meal prep. You can store it and enjoy it all week, perfect for busy nights.
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.
For meal prep, make the casserole ahead and bake when you’re ready. It’s perfect for families who want a healthy meal without daily prep. Just assemble, cover, and refrigerate until baking time. This way, you have a nutritious family dinner ready for hectic weeknights.
| Storage Option | Maximum Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days |
| Freezer | 3 months |
Follow these storage and meal prep tips to enjoy the Chicken, Broccoli, and Cottage Cheese Casserole all week. Your family will have a nutritious and satisfying family dinner whenever they need it.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
The Chicken, Broccoli, and Cottage Cheese Casserole is perfect as a main dish or with sides for a full meal. Here are some ideas to make your meal better.
Side Dish Recommendations
- A fresh, lightly dressed green salad adds a nice contrast to the casserole’s richness.
- Roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes bring color and nutrition.
- Pair the casserole with whole grain bread or brown rice to enjoy the creamy sauce.
Presentation Tips
To make the Chicken, Broccoli, and Cottage Cheese Casserole look great, top it with fresh basil leaves and a bit of chili pepper flakes. This simple step makes the dish more appealing.
Pairing the casserole with a light salad or roasted veggies and serving with whole grain bread or rice makes a balanced meal. The fresh garnishes add elegance and improve the dining experience.
Conclusion
The Chicken, Broccoli, and Cottage Cheese Casserole is a simple yet nutritious dish. It’s packed with protein and can be made in no time. This makes it perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Using a rotisserie chicken and a few ingredients, you can whip up this tasty casserole fast. It’s great for those who want a balanced meal. Plus, you can adjust the recipe to fit your taste or dietary needs.
This casserole is not only healthy but also easy to make. It’s a great choice for a comforting meal that’s easy to fit into your busy schedule. Enjoy it as a satisfying and nutritious option for your family.