Are you looking for a delicious, comforting meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying? Look no further than our Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole! This delightful dish combines the wholesome goodness of broccoli with tender chicken and creamy cheese, all nestled together in a savory, homemade mushroom sauce. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also a fantastic way to sneak in those essential vegetables—perfect for both kids and adults! If you’re on a busy schedule, this recipe is a real time-saver. Making it in one casserole means less mess and more time to enjoy with family and friends.

The Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. With its perfect balance of textures—from the chewy pasta to the crisp-tender broccoli and melty cheese—each bite is nothing short of heavenly. This dish is perfect for meal prep as you can make a big batch and savor the leftovers throughout the week. It’s ideal for busy evenings or when you simply want a hearty meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started on a dinner that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Nutritious & Balanced: Packed with chicken, broccoli, and cheese, this casserole offers a well-rounded meal that delivers essential nutrients.
Simple to Prepare: With easy-to-follow steps, you can whip this dish together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly: Kids love it, and parents appreciate the secret veggies—everyone wins!
Comfort Food: The creamy texture and cheesy topping make it a delightful comfort food option that’s sure to satisfy.
Meal Prep Friendly: This casserole stores wonderfully, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into cooking, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Start by gathering all necessary ingredients and measuring them out to save time later. This casserole requires basic kitchen utensils and cookware, including:

A large pot for cooking pasta
A large sauté pan for making the sauce
A 9×13-inch baking dish for assembling and baking the casserole
Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient measurement
A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring

Once you have these tools ready, ensure your workspace is clean and organized. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready for baking once your casserole is assembled. This preparatory step will help streamline the cooking process, giving you more time to focus on crafting your delicious casserole.

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked pasta* (such as rotini, penne, or whole-wheat)
1 large head broccoli*, cut into bite-sized florets (about 1 pound)
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
1 small white onion, thinly sliced
8 ounces baby bella (cremini) mushrooms, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons flour
1 cup chicken or vegetable stock
1½ cups milk (any kind)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the uncooked pasta of your choice and cook until it is al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. One minute before the pasta is done, toss in the broccoli florets. This allows the broccoli to cook just enough so that it’s tender but still bright green and crisp. Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli together, shaking off any excess water.

Step 2: Prepare the Mushroom Sauce

While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, heat the butter or olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced onions and sauté for about three minutes until they’re translucent. Stir in the mushrooms and garlic, continuing to sauté for an additional five minutes until the mushrooms are softened. This step builds a robust flavor base for your sauce. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture, stirring continuously for about a minute to ensure everything is coated evenly. Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable stock until the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Add the milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to the sauté pan, whisking until fully combined. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer, then remove it from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar until it is melted and the sauce is smooth. This creamy sauce is the heart of the casserole. In your prepared baking dish, combine the drained pasta, broccoli, chicken, and the delicious mushroom sauce. Toss everything gently to ensure that all ingredients are well-coated before spreading it into an even layer.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Now it’s time to bring this comforting dish to life! Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes. After this initial baking time, remove the dish and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar evenly on top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling with a lovely golden top. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

Protein: Substitute the chicken with cooked turkey, tofu, or even canned tuna for a quick alternative.
Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to add more variety and nutrients.
Spices: Experiment with different spices such as paprika, cayenne, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to not overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook while baking.
Feel free to adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more milk if it’s too thick.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips

For added flavor, consider toasting the breadcrumbs and sprinkling them on top before the final bake.
This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 400 per serving
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 650mg

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

What can I substitute for pasta?

For a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free pasta or spiralized vegetables like zucchini.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties like mozzarella, gouda, or a blend for extra flavor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a versatile and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Its combination of wholesome ingredients and cheesy goodness makes it a family favorite that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you choose to enjoy it as a quick weeknight meal or a delightful gathering dish, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Be sure to share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t hesitate to try variations that suit your taste. Happy cooking!