SKINNY CHICKEN BROCCOLI CASSEROLE
Introduction: Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic casserole without compromising your Weight Watchers goals with this Skinny Chicken Broccoli Casserole. This health-conscious twist on the traditional dish combines lean protein, wholesome vegetables, and a creamy sauce to create a satisfying and low-point meal. Enjoy the creamy texture and savory goodness of a casserole while keeping your points in check, making it a delicious addition to your Weight Watchers-friendly repertoire.
Ingredients: Gather the following ingredients for your Skinny Chicken Broccoli Casserole:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
4 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed
2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
1/2 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray for greasing
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
Prepare Chicken and Broccoli: Cook the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and shred them. Steam the fresh broccoli florets until they are tender but still vibrant.
Combine Chicken, Broccoli, and Grains: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken with steamed broccoli and cooked quinoa or brown rice. This forms the hearty base of your casserole.
Prepare Creamy Sauce: In another bowl, whisk together reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese, plain non-fat Greek yogurt, reduced-fat mayonnaise, low-sodium chicken broth, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This creamy and flavorful sauce will bind the casserole together.
Combine Sauce with Chicken Mixture: Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken, broccoli, and grain mixture. Gently toss everything together until well coated, ensuring an even distribution of the sauce.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the combined mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Bake the Skinny Chicken Broccoli Casserole in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the casserole is bubbly.
Serve Warm: Once baked to perfection, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this delicious and guilt-free dish warm, reveling in the comforting flavors without compromising your Weight Watchers points.
Conclusion: Skinny Chicken Broccoli Casserole designed for Weight Watchers offers a delightful and satisfying way to enjoy the warmth of a classic casserole while adhering to your health-conscious goals. With lean protein, fresh broccoli, and a creamy yet light sauce, this dish provides a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. Savor the creamy goodness of this casserole as a guilt-free addition to your Weight Watchers-friendly menu, appreciating the combination of comfort and mindful eating it brings to your table.
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup low-fat shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup whole wheat or whole grain flour (or a gluten-free alternative)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Steam the broccoli until it’s tender but still firm, about 3-4 minutes. You can do this on the stovetop or in the microwave.
In a medium saucepan, spray cooking spray and heat it over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute or until fragrant.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture turns a light brown color.
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
Remove the saucepan from the heat, and then whisk in the Greek yogurt, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and the cheese sauce. Mix everything together until well coated.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is lightly browned.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
This Skinny Chicken Broccoli Casserole is a healthier option compared to traditional recipes because it uses Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and includes whole wheat flour for added fiber. Enjoy this delicious casserole as a comfort food that’s lighter on the calories but still packed with flavor.