Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe
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There is something deeply comforting about the combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta all wrapped up in a creamy sauce, and that’s exactly what makes the Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe a standout weeknight favorite. This dish strikes the perfect balance between nourishment and indulgence, blending wholesome ingredients with rich flavors and textures that everyone will love. Whether you’re after an easy dinner packed with nutrients or a crowd-pleaser that’s satisfyingly hearty, this casserole has you covered in every way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients, each bringing something special to the table. From the wholesome pasta that provides a comforting base to the creamy cashew sauce that adds richness without heaviness, every component has a role in making this casserole a delicious, balanced meal.
- 8 ounces whole wheat rotini pasta: A fiber-rich pasta option that holds sauce beautifully and boosts the dish’s heartiness.
- 3-4 cups broccoli florets: Adds a fresh crunch, vibrant color, and a big nutritional punch loaded with vitamins.
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil: Perfect for roasting broccoli to golden, tender perfection with healthy fats.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, cubed: Provides lean protein to keep you full and satisfied.
- 2 cups shredded cheese, divided (regular or vegan): Melts gorgeously to create that irresistible gooey top and creamy texture inside.
- 1/2 cup creamy cashew butter: A luscious base for the sauce offering richness and subtle nutty flavor.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened plain cashew milk (or almond milk): Keeps the sauce smooth and dairy-free if preferred.
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Adds depth and savory warmth to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup almond flour: Helps thicken the sauce naturally, ensuring every bite is velvety and clingy.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the dish with aromatic, comforting undertones.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a mild smokiness that elevates the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a gentle herbal note for brightness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by heating your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and set a pot of water on the stove to boil for the pasta. Getting these set early helps everything come together smoothly and on time.
Step 2: Roast the Broccoli
Place your broccoli florets in a 9×13 inch casserole dish then drizzle with avocado oil, sprinkling with salt and pepper. Roasting the broccoli brings out a natural sweetness and tender crispness that’s essential to the final texture of this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the broccoli roasts for 15 minutes, cook the whole wheat rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to soak up the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Whisk the Cashew Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the creamy cashew butter, cashew milk, broth, almond flour, garlic powder, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until you get a smooth, silky sauce. This dairy-free sauce is where the casserole finds its luscious, comforting character without unnecessary heaviness.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
To the roasted broccoli, add the cooked pasta, cubed chicken, one cup of shredded cheese, and the cashew sauce. Stir everything together until well combined, then sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly across the top. Bake the casserole for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden around the edges. This step ensures flavors meld beautifully and the top gets that perfect cheesy finish.
Step 6: Serve
Once baked, let your casserole cool briefly before serving to allow it to set slightly. This little pause makes every spoonful easier to serve and enjoy while still warm and comforting.
How to Serve Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil create a lovely color contrast and brightness that brighten the casserole’s creamy richness. A light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a gentle kick for those who love a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a main event, but you can round out the meal with a crisp side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or simple roasted carrots. Both add freshness and texture without overwhelming the flavors of the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve straight from the casserole dish allowing everyone to help themselves. For a gathering, divide portions into individual ramekins and garnish each with a little extra cheese and fresh herbs before serving for a special touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or the whole casserole in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F until heated through. Adding a splash of broth or cashew milk before reheating helps maintain that creamy texture without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While whole wheat rotini is used here for its hearty texture and nutrition, you can swap in gluten-free pasta or any shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to keep the pasta al dente.
Is the cashew sauce suitable for those with nut allergies?
If you have nut allergies, you can substitute the cashew butter and cashew milk with sunflower seed butter and oat milk or another allergy-friendly creamy base. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt the Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe to be vegan by omitting the chicken or replacing it with plant-based chicken alternatives and using vegan cheese options. The cashew sauce is already dairy-free!
What can I do if I don’t have almond flour?
You can substitute almond flour with all-purpose flour or a gluten-free blend. Just whisk it into the sauce well to avoid lumps. The thickening might be slightly different but the sauce still comes together nicely.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly after baking?
For best texture, freeze the casserole before baking rather than after. The pasta and broccoli hold up better when reheated after baking fresh. If freezing post-bake, be gentle when reheating to avoid overcooked pasta.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines wholesome ingredients with rich, comforting flavors in such a satisfying way. It’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again, whether feeding your family or simply treating yourself to something nourishing. Dive in, give it a try, and enjoy every delicious bite—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole is a wholesome, comforting meal that combines whole wheat pasta, roasted broccoli, tender chicken, and a creamy cashew-based sauce. Perfectly baked with a cheesy topping, it’s a nutritious and delicious dish that serves the whole family in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Protein
- 3–4 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cups cooked chicken, cubed
Pasta
- 8 ounces whole wheat rotini pasta (or any pasta)
Oils & Fats
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
Cheese & Dairy Alternatives
- 2 cups regular or vegan shredded cheese, divided
- 3/4 cup unsweetened plain cashew milk (or almond milk)
- 1/2 cup creamy cashew butter
Liquids
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Flours & Thickeners
- 1/4 cup almond flour
Spices & Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Meanwhile, start boiling a pot of water for the pasta to cook.
- Roast Broccoli: Place the broccoli florets in a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Drizzle with avocado oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until slightly tender and lightly browned.
- Cook Pasta: While the broccoli is roasting, cook the whole wheat rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Make Cashew Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the creamy cashew butter, unsweetened cashew milk, chicken or vegetable broth, almond flour, garlic powder, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Remove the roasted broccoli from the oven and add in the cooked pasta, cubed chicken, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and the prepared cashew sauce. Mix everything thoroughly to combine. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Return the casserole dish to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to portion.
Notes
- You can substitute the chicken with tofu or another plant-based protein to make this casserole vegetarian.
- Using vegan cheese and plant-based broth will keep the dish dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
- If you don’t have almond flour, you can substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta during boiling as it will cook further in the oven.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or thyme before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
