Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole

When you’re craving comfort food but want to keep things on the lighter side, this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole hits all the right notes. It’s creamy, cheesy, and cozy — but made with wholesome ingredients that won’t weigh you down.

Forget the cans of condensed soup or heavy cream. This modern twist swaps in Greek yogurt, low-fat cheese, and plenty of fresh broccoli for a balanced meal that’s every bit as satisfying as the classic.

Why You’ll Love This Healthier Casserole

✅ High in protein — thanks to lean chicken and Greek yogurt.
✅ Packed with veggies — fresh broccoli adds crunch and nutrients.
✅ Creamy without the guilt — lightened sauce, same comfort.
✅ Easy to meal-prep — perfect for busy weeknights.
✅ Family-approved flavor — everyone loves it, even picky eaters!

The Inspiration Behind This Dish

Traditional chicken broccoli casseroles often rely on canned soups or loads of cream and butter. While comforting, they can be heavy and overly salty. This healthier version brings all the indulgence but uses cleaner ingredients — creating a dish that’s both nourishing and soul-satisfying.

Instead of processed soup bases, you’ll make a simple homemade creamy sauce with Greek yogurt, chicken broth, and a touch of light cheese. The result? A velvety texture that feels decadent but is surprisingly light.

Key Ingredients

Chicken Breast – Lean protein that stays tender when baked. You can use pre-cooked shredded chicken or quickly sauté fresh chicken pieces.

Broccoli Florets – Fresh or frozen broccoli works here. Lightly steam before baking so it stays bright and crisp-tender.

Greek Yogurt – Adds creaminess and a subtle tang without heavy cream or mayo. Use plain, unsweetened 2% yogurt for best texture.

Low-Fat Cheese – A mix of mozzarella and sharp cheddar provides stretch and flavor while keeping fat lower.

Whole-Wheat Breadcrumbs – For a crisp, satisfying topping with extra fiber.

Garlic & Onion – Build savory depth and aroma in the sauce.

Chicken Broth & Flour – Create a light roux-based sauce as the casserole’s creamy base.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (lightly steamed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (2%)
• 1 cup shredded low-fat cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika

For the Topping:

• ½ cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×10-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish.
2. Cook the Aromatics
   In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Make the Light Sauce
   Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir to coat. Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking until smooth. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add Yogurt & Cheese
   Remove from heat and stir in Greek yogurt, ¾ cup cheddar, and ¼ cup mozzarella until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. Combine Chicken & Broccoli
   In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken and steamed broccoli. Pour the sauce over and stir gently to coat.
6. Assemble the Casserole
   Transfer mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining cheeses.
7. Add Topping
   In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly on top.
8. Bake
   Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
9. Cool & Serve
   Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole

A lightened-up version of the classic comfort casserole with chicken, broccoli, and creamy Greek yogurt sauce topped with golden cheese and breadcrumbs.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 6 people

Course: Dinner, Main Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

Casserole

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded
• 3 cups broccoli florets lightly steamed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 0.5 onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tbsp flour or whole wheat flour
• 1 cup chicken broth low-sodium
• 0.5 cup Greek yogurt plain, 2%
• 1 cup low-fat cheddar cheese shredded
• 0.5 cup part-skim mozzarella shredded
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 0.25 tsp paprika

Topping

• 0.5 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese optional

Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Skillet
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease an 8×10-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion for 3–4 minutes; add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
3. Add flour, stir, then whisk in broth until smooth; simmer 2–3 minutes to thicken.
4. Remove from heat, stir in Greek yogurt and most of the cheeses until creamy.
5. Combine chicken and broccoli in a large bowl; pour sauce over and mix gently.
6. Transfer to baking dish, top with remaining cheese.
7. Mix breadcrumbs with oil and Parmesan, sprinkle on top.
8. Bake 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Why This Version Is Healthier

Traditional casseroles often hide loads of sodium, butter, and processed ingredients. This one stays light and nourishing because:

• Greek yogurt replaces heavy cream for creaminess and protein.
• Whole-wheat breadcrumbs boost fiber and crunch.
• Reduced-fat cheese keeps calories lower without losing flavor.
• Broccoli and lean chicken provide nutrients and balance.

One serving delivers about 30 grams of protein and loads of vitamin C and calcium — making it a smart comfort meal you can enjoy guilt-free.

Helpful Tips

🥦 Use Fresh Broccoli: Steam just until bright green — overcooking makes it mushy after baking.
🧀 Blend Cheeses: Mixing cheddar and mozzarella creates flavor plus melty texture.
🍗 Rotisserie Shortcut: Use leftover or store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.
🔥 Crispier Top: Broil for the last 2–3 minutes for that irresistible golden crust.
🥣 Make It Creamier: Add an extra spoonful of Greek yogurt for a richer texture.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce.
• Extra Veggies: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or peas.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk yogurt and vegan cheese.

What to Serve With It

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but pairs wonderfully with:

• A green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Brown rice or quinoa
• Garlic-roasted carrots or green beans

For meal prep, portion it into individual containers — it reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat: Bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave until hot.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 31g
• Carbs: 14g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 410mg
• Calcium: 18% DV

The Perfect Weeknight Comfort

This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole proves that lighter food can still taste indulgent. The creamy sauce, cheesy topping, and tender chicken make it deeply satisfying, while wholesome swaps keep it balanced and energizing.

Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this is one casserole you’ll feel good about making again and again.