When the day winds down and the kitchen beckons with the promise of something warm yet light, this Low-Calorie Chicken Broccoli Casserole steps in like a quiet hero. It’s the kind of meal that fills the room with a gentle, savory aroma—garlic and thyme blending with the subtle tang of Greek yogurt—while the oven’s warmth creates a cozy backdrop for whatever evening unfolds.
I remember the first time I made this casserole, the sound of broccoli steaming was a soft hiss somewhere between a whisper and a sigh. I was juggling dinner with a stray phone call and a distracted toddler who insisted on showing me their latest crayon masterpiece. Somehow, the casserole came together, slightly uneven in its layering but perfectly comforting. The cheese melted unevenly on top, some golden bits darker than others, making it feel homemade in the best way possible. That imperfect, cozy moment stuck with me—like a quiet affirmation that good food doesn’t need to be fancy to feel special.
- Combines lean chicken and fresh broccoli in a creamy, satisfying casserole that feels indulgent without overdoing calories.
- The light sauce balances tangy Greek yogurt with just enough cheese to create comfort without heaviness.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients, just wholesome, approachable food.
- Perfect for meal prep or a family dinner, with leftovers that reheat nicely (though freezing might change the texture).
If you’re wary of casseroles feeling too dense or heavy, this one offers a fresh alternative that’s both filling and light. It’s not a quick fix, but the prep and bake time fit well into a busy evening when you want something nourishing without the fuss.
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Low-Calorie Chicken Broccoli Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
A healthy and delicious low-calorie chicken broccoli casserole that’s perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner. Packed with lean chicken, fresh broccoli, and a light creamy sauce, this casserole is satisfying without the extra calories.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup low-fat plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Steam the broccoli florets for 5 minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, sautéed onion and garlic, Greek yogurt, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
Transfer the mixture into a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
For this dish, a sturdy baking dish works best, nothing too fancy needed. I usually serve it alongside a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. Sometimes, I toss in a handful of cherry tomatoes just before baking, though I haven’t tested that enough to say if it’s a must-try or just a happy accident. Another time, swapping the cheddar for a sharper cheese added an unexpected twist, but stick to mild if you want the classic vibe. And if you find yourself short on fresh broccoli, frozen works fine—just thaw and drain well to avoid sogginess.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble it earlier and refrigerate for a few hours before baking, which actually helps the flavors meld.
Is it okay to use frozen broccoli? Absolutely. Just make sure to steam or thaw it properly to avoid excess moisture.
Can this be made dairy-free? I haven’t tried it myself, but swapping Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative might work—expect some changes in texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard? A small bit of yellow mustard or even a pinch of dry mustard powder can stand in, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
Give this casserole a try when you want dinner that feels like a gentle hug after a long day—one that’s nourishing, satisfying, and just a little bit forgiving.