Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole.

There’s something so comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas. The Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole is the ultimate cozy dish, perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheddar in a satisfying noodle base, all baked to perfection. Get ready to dig into a bowl of pure comfort!

Why I Love This Recipe

This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily modify it based on what you have on hand. Second, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. Finally, it’s packed with nutrients from the broccoli and protein from the chicken, making it a wholesome option for the whole family. Plus, the gooey cheese is just a delightful bonus that everyone loves!

What We’re Using

To make this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 3/4 pound boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, to taste
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1 pound short cut pasta
• 3 cups broccoli florets, roughly chopped
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Cook’s Kit

Before we dive into the cooking process, make sure you have the following kitchen essentials:

• A large skillet or saucepan for sautéing
• A baking dish for the casserole
• A mixing spoon or spatula
• A cutting board and knife for prep
• A measuring cup and spoons for accuracy

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly bubbly and golden.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and carrots, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your casserole.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken breasts to the skillet. Season with garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, around 7-10 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Seasonings

Stir in the butter, fresh thyme leaves, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Allow everything to melt and combine for about 2 minutes, creating a rich and aromatic mixture.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, cook the short cut pasta in a separate pot according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir to combine everything, ensuring that the pasta and broccoli are well coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the entire mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded cheddar cheese over the top, creating a cheesy crust that will melt beautifully in the oven.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The smell will be irresistible, so try not to peek too often!

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is perfect on its own or served with a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy each cheesy, creamy bite!

Adaptations for Special Diets

This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole is adaptable to various dietary preferences:

• To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta of your choice.
• To reduce calories, use low-fat cheese and milk alternatives.
• Add additional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.

Testing Timeline

If you’re curious how long it takes to whip up this delicious casserole, here’s a quick timeline:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Save It for Later

If you have leftovers or want to make this dish ahead of time, here are some tips:

Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It also freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Ask & Learn

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a convenient option and will work just fine. Just add it to the mixture a bit earlier to ensure it cooks through.

What can I substitute for chicken if I want a different protein?

You can use cooked shredded turkey, tofu, or even beans like black beans or kidney beans for a protein-packed vegetarian option.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you love heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes along with the cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

Is this casserole good for meal prep?

Definitely! This casserole is perfect for meal prep. Just portion it out into individual servings for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Cook This Next

If you enjoyed making the Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole, you might want to try these delightful recipes next:

• Chicken Parmesan
• Vegetable Stir Fry
• Creamy Mushroom Soup
• Spaghetti Carbonara

Final Bite

This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a dish. Its creamy, cheesy goodness, combined with nutritious broccoli and tender chicken, makes it a family favorite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this casserole is sure to please. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a comforting and satisfying dinner that everyone will love. Happy cooking!