Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Savor the Comforting Goodness of Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Embark on a delicious journey with this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole recipe, where hearty pasta, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli come together in a creamy cheddar mushroom sauce. This dish takes the traditional casserole we all know and love, then gives it a nutritious spin without losing any of the cozy flavor.

Whether you’re serving a busy family dinner, preparing a make-ahead lunch, or hosting friends, this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole delivers comfort and satisfaction. It’s filling, wholesome, and layered with rich taste, making it a perfect addition to your weekly rotation.

Ideal for chilly evenings or when you want something hearty yet balanced, this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole recipe provides comfort without being overly heavy. Ready to enjoy a creamy, cheesy dish that still feels light? Let’s dive into this simple and rewarding recipe.

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Flavorful and Creamy: Your New Go-To Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a flavorful, family-friendly meal. The base is made with al dente pasta and fresh broccoli, which are coated in a creamy sauce of mushrooms, onion, garlic, and cheddar. Tender chunks of chicken add protein, while Dijon mustard brightens the flavor.

Unlike many casseroles, this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole avoids heavy cream soups or excessive fats. Instead, it uses fresh vegetables, milk, and homemade sauce, giving it a lighter texture and fresher taste. It’s not just a meal—it’s proof that comfort food can also be balanced and nutritious.

Here’s how to prepare this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole step by step, along with expert tips to make it irresistibly creamy and satisfying.

Serving Suggestions: Pair with a crisp green salad or warm crusty bread for a complete dinner.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole

1. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooking the pasta prevents it from becoming mushy while baking.
2. Add Broccoli at the Right Time: Drop broccoli in during the last minute of boiling so it stays bright and crisp.
3. Use Fresh Cheese: Shred your own cheddar for smoother melting and richer flavor.
4. Don’t Skip the Dijon: A small spoonful adds depth and balances the creamy sauce.
5. Finish with Broil (Optional): For a golden cheesy top, broil the casserole for 2 minutes after baking.

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Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Equipment: Stockpot, sauté pan, baking dish, whisk

With this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole recipe, your kitchen fills with the inviting aroma of bubbling cheese, sautéed garlic, and roasted vegetables.

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Ingredients:

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta (whole wheat rotini 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 mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 ½ cups milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken

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Directions:

1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 400°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. One minute before it’s done, add broccoli florets. Drain both and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In a sauté pan, heat butter or oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook for 3 minutes. Stir in mushrooms and garlic; sauté for 5 minutes until mushrooms soften.
4. Make the Sauce: Sprinkle flour over vegetables, stir, and cook for 1 minute. Add stock and whisk until smooth. Stir in milk, Dijon, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened. Remove from heat and mix in 1 cup of cheddar.
5. Assemble the Casserole: In the baking dish, combine pasta, broccoli, chicken, and sauce. Mix well and smooth into an even layer.
6. Bake and Top with Cheese: Bake uncovered for 15 minutes. Remove, sprinkle remaining cheese over the top, and bake another 10 minutes until melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

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Ready to Relish!

This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole recipe is warm, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. Each bite brings together creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked broccoli for a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

It’s the kind of recipe that makes family meals memorable, offering comfort without weighing you down. Whether you serve it fresh out of the oven or enjoy leftovers the next day, this casserole always delivers deliciousness.

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