If you’re looking for a comforting, nutritious dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious cheesy sauce, you’ve hit the jackpot with this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on a classic casserole, swapping out heavy creams and processed fillers for wholesome ingredients that don’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this casserole is sure to become your go-to crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent yet nourishing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen, each playing a crucial role in the flavor, texture, or nutrition. From the hearty whole-wheat pasta to the vibrant broccoli florets and savory mushroom sauce, everything comes together beautifully.
- 8 ounces whole-wheat rotini pasta: Provides a fiber-rich base with a pleasing chewy texture that holds the sauce well.
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 1 pound): Adds a fresh, crisp bite and packs in essential vitamins and minerals.
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil: Used for sautéing, these fats bring richness and help develop flavor.
- 1 small white onion, thinly sliced: Adds mild sweetness and depth when sautéed until tender.
- 8 ounces baby bella (cremini) mushrooms, thinly sliced: Introduces an earthy, meaty note that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers punchy aromatic flavor that enhances every bite.
- 3 tablespoons flour: Helps thicken the sauce without heaviness.
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock: Forms the savory backbone of the sauce with rich umami.
- 1 1/2 cups milk: Provides creaminess while keeping the casserole lighter than traditional heavy cream versions.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth that lifts the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper: Gives a gentle spice to balance the cheese.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided: Adds melty, flavorful richness that ties the dish together beautifully.
- 2 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken: The hearty protein star that makes this casserole a satisfying main course.
How to Make Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by cooking the whole-wheat rotini pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until it is just al dente. To maximize freshness and texture, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water during the final minute of the pasta’s cooking time. This timing ensures the broccoli turns tender-crisp without losing its vivid green color. Drain everything together and set aside, keeping those flavors and nutrients intact for the next step.
Step 2: Make the Mushroom Sauce
Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then sauté the thinly sliced white onion, baby bella mushrooms, and minced garlic until fragrant, tender, and lightly browned. Stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking it briefly to remove the raw taste. Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable stock and milk, then add Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Let the sauce gently simmer until it thickens. Stir in 1 cup of the sharp cheddar cheese until melted and silky smooth, creating a savory mushroom sauce that’s rich but not overwhelming.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl or directly in your baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, mushroom sauce, and tender cooked chicken. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Transfer the mixture to an ovenproof casserole dish and bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and beautifully golden. This final step creates a perfect cheesy crust that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
How to Serve Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate this casserole from homey to wow. Try a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add a fresh pop of color and flavor. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can also add a little extra zing and mouthfeel just before serving.
Side Dishes
While this casserole stands beautifully on its own, pairing it with a crisp side salad or steamed green beans enhances the meal’s freshness and balance. A bright tomato and cucumber salad, lightly dressed with lemon and olive oil, complements the creamy texture with acidity. Or, for cooler months, roasted root vegetables seasoned with herbs make a hearty accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe straight from the baking dish for a cozy family-style vibe or portion it into individual ramekins for an elegant presentation at a dinner party. Another fun idea is to transform leftovers into stuffed bell peppers or even layered into a warm pasta bake. This recipe is flexible and lends itself beautifully to all sorts of creative plating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps well for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow it to cool before covering to maintain the best texture. Leftovers often taste even better as the flavors continue to meld over time.
Freezing
If you want to make this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe ahead for convenience, it freezes beautifully. Assemble it fully but hold off on baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, place portions of the casserole in an oven-safe dish and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through and the cheese is melty, about 15-20 minutes. Microwaving works too if you’re in a hurry, but the oven will revive that fresh-baked, cheesy texture best.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Both fresh cooked chicken and leftover rotisserie chicken work great in this casserole. Just shred or dice your chicken before adding it in the assembly step, making it a flexible recipe for any convenience level.
Is it okay to substitute the whole-wheat pasta?
Yes, you can use your favorite pasta type like regular rotini, penne, or even gluten-free options if preferred. Whole-wheat pasta is a great way to add fiber and a nutty flavor, but feel free to choose what suits your dietary needs.
Can I make the mushroom sauce dairy-free?
Definitely! Swap out the butter for olive oil and use plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk. You can also find dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well to keep the creamy texture and cheesy flavor.
How can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
Feel free to toss in extras like diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped spinach along with the broccoli. Adding more veggies boosts both nutrition and color, making this casserole even more wholesome.
What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, try substituting with yellow mustard, a small splash of apple cider vinegar, or a little prepared horseradish to bring that mild tanginess to the sauce. It adds a subtle complexity without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe is truly a winner for anyone who craves a comforting, cheesy baked dish without feeling weighed down. Its nourishing ingredients, balanced flavors, and satisfying textures make it perfect for families or anytime you want a wholesome, delicious meal. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite casserole!
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 nutritious and comforting dish featuring whole-wheat pasta, fresh broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, and tender chicken all combined in a creamy cheese sauce and baked to perfection. It’s a wholesome family meal that balances indulgence with healthy ingredients for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces whole-wheat rotini pasta
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 1 pound)
Sautéed Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 small white onion, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces baby bella (cremini) mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 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
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
Protein
- 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 rotini pasta and cook until almost al dente according to package instructions. One minute before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Once the broccoli and pasta are cooked, drain them together and set aside.
- Make the Mushroom Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter or heat the olive oil. Sauté the thinly sliced onion until translucent. Add the sliced baby bella mushrooms and cook until they release their juices and soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly to coat, cooking for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable stock and milk, ensuring no lumps form. Stir in the Dijon mustard, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl or directly in a baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and broccoli, the mushroom cheese sauce, and the diced or shredded cooked chicken. Mix everything gently so the sauce evenly coats all ingredients.
- Bake the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish if not already in one. Spread it evenly and bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Add Cheese Topping and Finish Baking: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly on top. Return to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, about 8-10 more minutes.
- Serve: Remove from oven, let rest slightly. Serve hot, garnished with freshly cracked black pepper and chopped fresh herbs if desired for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use whole-wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
- Chicken can be substituted with turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
- If dairy-free, use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives.
- To save time, cook the pasta and broccoli simultaneously in the boiling water.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
