If you’re on the hunt for a comforting meal that doesn’t skimp on nutrition, this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. It beautifully blends tender whole wheat pasta, vibrant roasted broccoli, and juicy chunks of chicken, all baked in a luscious, creamy cashew-based sauce that’s both dairy-free friendly and rich with flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving up a cozy dinner for loved ones, this casserole hits every mark with its perfect balance of protein, veggies, and soul-satisfying goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, from texture and flavor to the wholesome nourishment it adds. Simple yet thoughtful choices make assembling this casserole straightforward and fun.
- 8 ounces whole wheat rotini pasta: Adds a hearty, nutty flavor and a satisfying chew that’s more nutritious than regular pasta.
- 3-4 cups broccoli florets: Brings a beautiful green pop and a boost of fiber and antioxidants when roasted to perfection.
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil: A mild, heart-healthy oil that helps roast broccoli evenly while enhancing its natural sweetness.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, cubed: Provides lean protein that makes this casserole filling and balanced.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (regular or vegan), divided: Melts into a gooey, delicious top layer that unites the dish.
- 1/2 cup creamy cashew butter: Serves as the base of the sauce, lending rich creaminess without dairy.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened plain cashew milk (or almond milk): Keeps the sauce light and smooth with subtle nuttiness.
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Adds depth and moisture for the sauce to blend all ingredients beautifully.
- 1/4 cup almond flour: Helps thicken the sauce naturally while adding extra nutrients.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle aromatic warmth throughout the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a gentle smoky kick to complement the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Sprinkles in a touch of herbal brightness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing every layer of flavor.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures it’s hot and ready to roast the broccoli perfectly. Meanwhile, get a pot of water boiling for the pasta – timing is everything!
Step 2: Roast the Broccoli
Place the broccoli florets in a 9×13 inch casserole dish and drizzle with avocado oil, then season with salt and pepper. Roasting brings out a nutty, slightly caramelized flavor that makes the veggies shine. Pop them into the oven for 15 minutes while you move on.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Cook your whole wheat rotini according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside. Having pasta just right in texture is crucial here so it doesn’t get mushy during baking.
Step 4: Whisk the Creamy Cashew Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cashew butter, unsweetened cashew milk, broth, almond flour, garlic powder, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. This silky smooth sauce will bind all ingredients together with flavorful indulgence and a creamy consistency without heavy cream.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, Broccoli, and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta, cubed chicken, one cup of shredded cheese, and the cashew sauce to the roasted broccoli in your casserole dish. Mix everything gently but thoroughly so every bite has a delicious combination of all the components.
Step 6: Add Cheese Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top, then bake the casserole for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese melts into a golden bubbly crust. This final bake ties it all together and gives that irresistible comfort-food appeal.
Step 7: Let It Cool Before Serving
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking. This step helps it firm up slightly, making it easier to serve and even more enjoyable to eat.
How to Serve Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives on top for a vibrant color contrast and a delicate fresh flavor. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving can also elevate the dish’s richness and make it shine.
Side Dishes
This casserole is quite filling on its own, but if you want a fresh side, a simple mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette works beautifully. Roasted sweet potatoes or a crusty whole grain bread are great for soaking up any extra sauce and completing the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for a charming, rustic presentation. Layering it with extra broccoli florets on top before baking gives it an eye-catching, gourmet touch perfect for dinner guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making reheated portions even better the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your casserole in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, a microwave works fine for a quicker option, but the oven method preserves that baked, melty texture best.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat rotini is great for its texture and nutrition, but you can swap it for penne, fusilli, or any favorite pasta. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, by using vegan cheese and substituting the chicken with plant-based proteins like chickpeas or tofu, this recipe can definitely be made vegan while keeping it hearty and tasty.
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
You can, but it’s best to cook and cube the chicken beforehand. Raw chicken would need additional baking time which might dry out the pasta or broccoli.
What can I substitute if I don’t have cashew butter?
Sunflower seed butter or almond butter can work in a pinch, though the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly. Make sure to choose creamy, unsweetened varieties for the best result.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! This Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe holds up well in the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for batch cooking and quick, wholesome meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe inspires you to enjoy a nourishing, delicious dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s a wonderful way to get in your veggies and protein with a creamy, comforting twist. Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll become one of your favorite go-to meals!
Print
Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole is a wholesome, comforting dish combining whole wheat pasta, roasted broccoli, tender chicken, and a creamy cashew-based sauce. It’s baked to perfection with melted cheese on top, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces whole wheat rotini pasta (or any pasta)
- 3–4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Protein and Cheese
- 3 cups cooked chicken, cubed
- 2 cups regular or vegan shredded cheese, divided (1 cup for mixing, 1 cup for topping)
Sauce
- 1/2 cup creamy cashew butter
- 3/4 cup unsweetened plain cashew milk (or almond milk)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Boil: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, start boiling a pot of water for the pasta to cook later.
- Roast Broccoli: Place the broccoli florets in a 9×13 inch casserole dish, drizzle with avocado oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 15 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the cashew butter, unsweetened cashew milk, chicken or vegetable broth, almond flour, garlic powder, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: To the roasted broccoli in the casserole dish, add the cooked pasta, cubed cooked chicken, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and the prepared cashew sauce. Mix everything well to combine evenly.
- Bake Casserole: Top the mixture with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese. Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Notes
- You can substitute the whole wheat pasta with gluten-free pasta if desired.
- Use vegan cheese and plant-based chicken to make this dish vegan.
- Roasting broccoli enhances its flavor but steaming can be used for a softer texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Additions like mushrooms or bell peppers can be incorporated for extra veggies.
- For a lower-fat version, reduce cheese quantity or use low-fat cheese.
