A comforting and wholesome meal doesn’t have to be heavy or complicated. This Healthy Broccoli Chicken Casserole is the ideal blend of hearty ingredients and nutritious choices. Packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, whole-wheat pasta, and a creamy homemade sauce, it’s a satisfying dish that brings both flavor and nourishment to your table.
Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this casserole balances taste and health beautifully. Let’s dive into the full recipe, tips for success, and how to store and reheat leftovers.
1. Healthy Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this healthy casserole:
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (whole-wheat rotini is recommended)
- 1 large head of 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 all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 ½ cups milk (any kind, dairy or unsweetened plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper
- 2 cups (8 ounces) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for about 2 minutes less than the package instructions recommend. About 2–3 minutes before the pasta is ready, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. This allows both components to cook together, saving time and dishes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the butter (or olive oil) over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and mushrooms. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and browned. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the flour to slightly toast. Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable stock, followed by the milk. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce — this should take 3–5 minutes.
Once thickened, stir in the Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Then add 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and broccoli, diced chicken, and the creamy mushroom sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Chicken Casserole
Use rotisserie chicken to save time when preparing the dish — it’s flavorful and easy to shred.
Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue cooking in the oven and can become mushy if too soft initially.
Freshly shredded cheese melts better and provides a creamier texture than pre-shredded varieties.
Let the sauce thicken properly before mixing with other ingredients to avoid a runny casserole.
Add a crunchy topping, like whole-wheat breadcrumbs or crushed almonds, for extra texture and flair.
3. Variations and Substitutes
Swap pasta for brown rice or quinoa to make it gluten-free or add a different grain texture.
Replace cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile — or mix cheeses for a custom blend.
Use cauliflower instead of broccoli if you prefer a milder veggie or want a low-carb variation.
Add a handful of spinach or kale for extra greens and nutrients in every bite.
Make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using chickpeas or white beans as a protein substitute.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Casserole leftovers store beautifully, making this recipe great for meal prep.
Storing:
- Allow the casserole to cool completely.
- Transfer to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
- Portion into individual servings and wrap them tightly in foil or store in freezer-safe containers.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
- Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
This Healthy Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a delicious and balanced meal that brings together comforting flavors and nutritious ingredients. It’s customizable, great for leftovers, and sure to satisfy the whole family.
Whether you’re serving it fresh from the oven or enjoying it the next day, this casserole makes healthy eating both easy and enjoyable. Try it once, and it might just become a regular in your weekly meal rotation.
