Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

Picture this: the aroma of bubbling cheddar cheese, tender chicken, and earthy broccoli wafting through your kitchen. It’s that kind of meal—the one that warms your soul and brings your family running to the dinner table. Broccoli cheddar chicken and noodle casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy pasta, hearty chicken, and nutritious broccoli in a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner or just someone who loves cheesy, baked goodness, this casserole will not disappoint. It’s wholesome, flavorful, and versatile enough to tweak to your liking. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this cozy, crave-worthy dish!

What Is Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole?

Broccoli cheddar chicken and noodle casserole is a baked pasta dish made with cubed chicken, broccoli florets, tender pasta, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Everything is combined in one dish and baked until golden and bubbly.

This casserole takes the best elements of a chicken dinner, broccoli cheddar soup, and mac and cheese, and combines them into one irresistible meal. It’s hearty, nutritious, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Everything comes together in one dish, minimizing cleanup.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy goodness.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, vegetables, and carbs for a balanced meal.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble it ahead of time and bake when ready.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredient	Purpose	Substitution Options
Extra Virgin Olive Oil	Used for sautéing vegetables and chicken	Substitute with avocado oil or canola oil
Yellow Onion	Adds sweetness and depth of flavor	Use shallots or leeks for a milder taste
Carrots	Provides natural sweetness and color	Replace with celery or zucchini if preferred
Chicken Breasts	Protein-packed base for the casserole	Use chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken
Garlic Powder	Adds a savory kick	Substitute with minced fresh garlic
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper	Enhances overall flavor	Adjust to taste
Salted Butter	Creates a rich base for the sauce	Use unsalted butter and adjust salt levels
Fresh Thyme Leaves	Adds herby, earthy flavor	Substitute with dried thyme or rosemary
Paprika	Provides color and subtle smokiness	Use smoked paprika for a stronger flavor
Cayenne Pepper	Adds a touch of heat	Omit if you prefer a milder dish
Chicken Broth	Forms the base of the sauce	Use vegetable broth for a lighter option
Milk	Adds creaminess to the sauce	Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version
Short Cut Pasta	Makes up the bulk of the casserole	Use penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni
Broccoli Florets	Adds nutrition and a fresh crunch	Substitute with cauliflower or peas
Parmesan Cheese	Adds umami and enhances the cheesy flavor	Use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano
Cheddar Cheese	The star ingredient that makes the dish creamy	Use Colby Jack or Gruyere for a twist

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole

Follow this simple step-by-step guide to make a casserole that’s golden, bubbly, and oh-so-delicious.

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Chop the onion, carrots, and broccoli. Cube the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Grate the cheddar and Parmesan cheese.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables

• In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots, cooking for 3–4 minutes until softened.
• Add the cubed chicken, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5–6 minutes.

Step 3: Create the Sauce Base

• Stir in the butter, thyme leaves, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Let the butter melt and coat the chicken and vegetables.
• Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

• Stir the uncooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
• Add the broccoli florets to the skillet during the last 3–4 minutes of cooking to steam them lightly.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

• Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese.
• Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Serve warm and watch it disappear!

Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole

• Freshly Grate the Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well due to added anti-caking agents. Always grate your cheese fresh for the creamiest sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli toward the end of cooking to keep it tender-crisp and vibrant.
• Choose the Right Pasta: Short-cut pasta like penne or fusilli works best as it holds the sauce well and bakes evenly.
• Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

Serving Suggestions

• Side Salad: Pair the casserole with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping into the cheesy sauce.
• Toppings: Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes or crispy breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Pre-Cook Step: Always cook the chicken and vegetables before assembling the casserole to ensure they’re fully cooked and flavorful.
2. Using Low-Quality Cheese: The flavor of this dish heavily relies on good cheese—opt for sharp cheddar for the best results.
3. Overbaking: Baking too long can dry out the casserole. Stick to the recommended baking time.

FAQs About Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole

Q1: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.

Q2: Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store the cooled casserole in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q3: What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
You can substitute cheddar with Colby Jack, Gruyere, or even mozzarella for a milder flavor.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini make great additions to this casserole.

Q5: How can I make it spicier?
Increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños for extra heat.

Q6: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver! Just skip the step where you cook the chicken.

Final Thoughts: A Dinner to Remember

Broccoli cheddar chicken and noodle casserole is the epitome of comfort food. With its creamy sauce, gooey cheese, and tender chicken, it’s a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prepping, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to enjoy the cheesy, comforting goodness of this classic dish. Your taste buds will thank you!

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