If you’re looking for a comforting, nourishing meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or heartiness, this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe is absolutely the one to try. It balances creamy, cheesy goodness with fresh broccoli and tender chicken—all wrapped together with whole-wheat pasta for some wholesome texture. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a cozy dinner, this casserole brings satisfaction without any guilt, making it a dependable favorite in my kitchen that I can’t wait to share with you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients create a casserole with incredible depth—from the nutty whole-wheat rotini to the earthy mushrooms and fresh broccoli. Each adds its own unique flavor and texture, making the final dish delightfully balanced and colorful.
- 8 ounces whole-wheat rotini pasta: Offers a hearty base with a delightful bite and added fiber.
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 1 pound): Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant green color to brighten the dish.
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil: Provides a flavorful sauté base for the mushrooms and onions.
- 1 small white onion, thinly sliced: Gives sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
- 8 ounces baby bella (cremini) mushrooms, thinly sliced: Adds an earthy, umami-rich taste to the creamy sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and a fragrant kick that wakes up the casserole.
- 3 tablespoons flour: Works as the perfect thickening agent for our mushroom sauce.
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock: Forms the savory base of the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups milk: Creates a luscious and creamy texture for the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle tang that elevates the cheese sauce complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that complements the creamy elements.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided: Brings melty richness, split between the sauce and topping for that golden crust.
- 2 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken: Offers a lean protein boost, making this casserole a full, satisfying meal.
How to Make Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by boiling the whole-wheat rotini pasta until it’s perfectly al dente—firm to the bite but tender. About one minute before the pasta finishes cooking, toss in the broccoli florets so they steam just enough to stay crisp and vibrant. Drain them together and set aside to prepare the next part of the dish. This timing keeps your veggies bright and your pasta just right, setting the stage for a perfect casserole texture.
Step 2: Make the Mushroom Sauce
In a large skillet, melt the butter or warm your olive oil and gently sauté the thinly sliced onions, mushrooms, and minced garlic until they soften and become fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour to create a roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable stock followed by the milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer and thicken for several minutes until luscious and creamy. Stir in 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese so it melts smoothly into this decadent sauce—this sauce is the heart of your casserole’s flavor.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Grab your baking dish and combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, mushroom sauce, and shredded chicken, folding everything together gently so each bite gets that perfect balance. Spread it out evenly in the dish, and place it in the oven to bake uncovered. After it’s warmed through and bubbling, sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese on top and return it briefly to the oven so the cheese melts into a beautiful golden topping. The end result is creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly inviting.
How to Serve Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance the rustic charm of this casserole, sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper on top before serving. A few chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives also brighten the look and add a fresh burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich cheese and creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
A light, crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the hearty casserole nicely, cutting through the richness while adding a refreshing crunch. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables can also be served alongside to bulk up the meal with extra greens and color.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to jazz up the presentation, serve the Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets. This makes for a charming, personalized serving and is great for portion control. Alternatively, a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts on top can add a welcome crunchy contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers should be cooled to room temperature before being stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making for easy, ready-to-go meals during your busy week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully if you want to make it ahead for future meals. After assembling but before baking, cover it tightly with foil and freeze. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adjusting the time slightly if needed to ensure it’s piping hot all the way through.
Reheating
To reheat, place portions in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, around 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, use a microwave for convenience, though the oven will maintain the casserole’s best texture, especially the crispy cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar provides a rich and tangy flavor, feel free to substitute with mozzarella for gooeyness, Monterey Jack for mild creaminess, or even a smoky gouda to add a twist. Just make sure the cheese melts well.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily omit the chicken or swap it for a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. Using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock will keep the flavors vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing the delicious sauce.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Frozen broccoli works in a pinch but tends to release more water, which might affect the casserole’s texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to avoid a soggy dish.
How can I make this casserole lower in calories?
Using less cheese or a reduced-fat variety, swapping whole milk for a lower-fat option, and cutting down the butter or oil quantity can all help reduce calories while maintaining great flavor. Also, increasing the broccoli-to-pasta ratio adds bulk with fewer calories.
What can I serve with this casserole for a complete meal?
A fresh simple side salad, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots complement this dish nicely. For bread lovers, a slice of crusty whole-grain bread works perfectly to soak up the creamy sauce.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade casserole that’s both comforting and wholesome, and this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe fits that bill perfectly. It’s a dish you can trust to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table without feeling heavy or overdone. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it soon earns a permanent spot in your recipe rotation for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Print
Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This healthier broccoli chicken casserole is a comforting and nutritious dish combining whole-wheat pasta, fresh broccoli florets, sautéed mushrooms, and tender chicken in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Baked to perfection with sharp cheddar cheese, it’s a balanced meal perfect for family dinners with added fiber and protein while keeping traditional indulgence in check.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces whole-wheat rotini pasta
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 1 pound)
Sauce
- 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
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper
Chicken and Cheese
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole-wheat pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. About 1 minute before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water to blanch them slightly. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
- Make the Mushroom Sauce: In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and sauté until translucent. Add the sliced baby bella mushrooms and cook until tender and any liquid has evaporated. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly to form a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes without browning. Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable stock while stirring, then add the milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce until slightly thickened, then stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl or directly in a baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, mushroom sauce, and cooked chicken. Pour everything into a baking dish and spread evenly. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until heated through. Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with cracked black pepper and fresh herbs if desired before serving.
Notes
- Use cooked leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Whole-wheat pasta adds extra fiber and nutrients compared to regular pasta.
- For a lower-fat version, use olive oil instead of butter and low-fat milk.
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme make a nice garnish to brighten the casserole.
- Be sure not to overcook the broccoli in the boiling water—blanching helps retain its vibrant color and crispness.
