Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a comforting meal that brings together wholesome ingredients with mouthwatering flavors, then you absolutely have to try this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole. It’s the perfect blend of tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, juicy chicken, and a creamy cheesy sauce that’s both satisfying and nourishing. This casserole is not just a dinner; it’s a warm hug on a plate that makes healthy eating feel indulgent and easy to love. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish has all the qualities of a beloved favorite you’ll return to time and time again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things delightfully simple with ingredients that play a crucial role in building the casserole’s taste, texture, and color. Each element complements the others to create a balanced dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

• 8 oz pasta: Use your favorite type—penne, rotini, or shells work beautifully to hold the creamy sauce.
• 12 oz broccoli (frozen or fresh): Adds a pop of green freshness and a satisfying crunch while packing in nutrients.
• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil: For sautéing onions and garlic, enriching the base flavor of the sauce.
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced: Builds a savory depth that elevates the entire dish.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the casserole with an irresistible fragrant warmth.
• 3 tbsp flour: Helps thicken the sauce for that luscious, creamy texture.
• 1 cup chicken stock (or vegetable stock): Adds savory richness and forms the liquid base of the sauce.
• 1 1/2 cups milk: Balances the stock, creating a smooth and velvety sauce.
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle tang that brightens the flavor profile.
• 1/2 tsp sea salt: Enhances all the savory notes throughout the casserole.
• 1/4 tsp fresh-cracked black pepper: Adds a hint of warmth and spice.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided: Provides gooey creaminess and a bold, cheesy kick.
• 1 lb diced cooked chicken: A hearty protein that makes this casserole a complete, balanced meal.

How to Make Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the pasta and broccoli

Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until it’s just al dente, typically a minute or two less than the package suggests. Two minutes before the pasta finishes, toss in the broccoli so it cooks alongside. This clever trick saves on cleanup and ensures the broccoli stays bright and crisp-tender. Once ready, drain everything and set it aside—it’s the perfect foundation for your casserole.

Step 2: Sauté the onion and garlic

In a sauté pan, melt the butter or heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook for roughly three minutes until it softens and turns translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional three minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning and to infuse your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Step 3: Make the creamy cheese sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and stir well to combine, cooking for about one minute to eliminate that raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken stock while stirring continuously until the sauce smooths out and the lumps vanish. Next, add the milk, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken. Once it’s perfect, remove it from the heat and stir in one cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and luscious.

Step 4: Combine and bake the casserole

Grab a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and toss together the cooked pasta, broccoli, diced chicken, and cheese sauce until everything is well-coated and evenly distributed. Spread the mixture out evenly in the casserole dish. Place it in the oven, uncovered, and bake for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Add the finishing cheesy touch

After the initial bake, pull the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Pop it back into the oven for another 10 minutes so the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly blanket that will have everyone grabbing a second helping.

How to Serve Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole

Garnishes

To elevate your Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole, try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top for a fresh pop of color and mild herbal brightness. A few crunchy toasted breadcrumbs on top can also add an exciting contrast in texture that makes every bite more interesting.

Side Dishes

This casserole really stands strong on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads dressed with tangy vinaigrettes or a side of roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts. The freshness of simple sides balances the richness of the casserole perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling fancy? Serve individual portions in small ramekins or mini casserole dishes for a charming presentation. You can also pack this dish in mason jars for a grab-and-go lunch option that stays warm and delicious. It’s a versatile meal that adapts beautifully to your style and occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Storing leftovers properly maintains the creamy texture and flavors so you can enjoy a quick warm-up on busy nights without any sacrifice.

Freezing

If you’d like to prep in advance, this casserole freezes wonderfully. Portion it out before baking or freeze the entire dish covered tightly with foil and plastic wrap. When frozen, it stays good for up to two months, making it a perfect meal prep option or emergency dinner solution.

Reheating

When reheating, it’s best to thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, which helps maintain the dish’s creamy texture and melty cheese topping. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, though the oven yields the best results.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar delivers that classic tangy richness, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for extra meltiness or a smoky gouda for added depth. Just keep the cheese quantity similar to maintain balance.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock and omit the chicken or replace it with plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. The broccoli and cheese sauce still make for a hearty, satisfying casserole.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Definitely. Fresh broccoli works wonderfully. Just steam or blanch it briefly before adding it to the pasta if you don’t want it too crisp. The cooking times will be similar and the dish will taste just as vibrant.

How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Simply swap out regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend when making the sauce and use gluten-free pasta. Check that the chicken stock is gluten-free as well, and you’ll have a safe and delicious casserole for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Of course! Feel free to toss in vegetables like peas, diced carrots, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onions or steam separately before mixing into the casserole for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole is truly a winner in the kitchen. It has that wonderful home-cooked vibe that’s hearty and wholesome, but with a fresh and healthy twist that makes it a dinner you can feel great about serving. Give it a try, and I bet it will quickly become a go-to meal for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s a dish worth sharing again and again.

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