Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Looking for a healthy chicken casserole that’s both delicious and nutritious? This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is packed with lean protein, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like rotini pasta, shredded cheddar cheese, and baby bella mushrooms, this healthy chicken casserole is a comforting meal that the whole family will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this low-calorie casserole is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite veggies or cheeses. With its balance of flavors and textures, it’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal without the guilt! Plus, this easy casserole recipe is a great option for anyone looking for healthy dinner recipes that are quick, tasty, and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of broccoli (about 4 cups of bite-sized florets)
• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
• 8 oz uncooked rotini pasta
• 8 oz baby bella mushrooms, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 ½ cups milk
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 cups diced cooked chicken

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a large stockpot, cook the rotini pasta until it’s nearly al dente. Five minutes before the pasta is finished, add the broccoli florets and cook for the remaining time. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same pot, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they begin to brown.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Continue sautéing for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and mushroom mixture, stirring constantly for 1 minute.
6. Gradually pour in the stock, making sure to dissolve any flour clumps. Add the milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, then remove from heat.
7. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if desired.
8. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, sauce, and diced chicken. Toss everything together until evenly combined.
9. Bake, uncovered, for 15 minutes. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top and bake for an additional 10 minutes, uncovered, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

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Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare this casserole a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake when ready to serve.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables, like cauliflower or bell peppers, for a vegetarian version.
• Pasta Alternatives: If rotini isn’t available, any short pasta like penne or elbow macaroni will work perfectly.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese: Use a different cheese like mozzarella, gouda, or a blend for a new flavor twist.
• Creamy Texture: For a richer sauce, substitute the milk with half-and-half or heavy cream.
• Add-ins: Try adding cooked bacon, sundried tomatoes, or a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for added texture and flavor.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, frozen broccoli can be used instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain it to remove excess moisture.
• Can I use store-bought cooked chicken? Absolutely! Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver in this recipe.
• Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, substitute the pasta with gluten-free rotini and the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread for a more filling meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with the added benefits of fresh vegetables and lean protein. It’s comforting yet light, packed with flavor, and makes for an easy one-dish dinner. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead for meal prep or to feed the family during a busy week! The broccoli adds essential nutrients, while the cheesy sauce brings it all together in a delicious, satisfying way.