There is something truly special about a classic casserole that just hits the spot, but making a Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole with Whole-Wheat Rotini and Cheddar Recipe turns this comfort dish into a nourishing and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week. This recipe combines wholesome whole-wheat rotini, fresh broccoli florets, tender chicken, and a creamy cheese sauce brought to life with earthy mushrooms and a touch of Dijon mustard. It’s a delicious way to get some greens on the table while indulging in gooey cheddar, and the balanced flavors and textures will have you coming back for seconds without any guilt.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole with Whole-Wheat Rotini and Cheddar Recipe comes alive because each ingredient plays a key role in flavor, texture, and nutrition. These simple yet essential components work together to create a hearty, wholesome meal filled with vibrant colors and hearty tastes that are sure to impress both family and friends.
- 8 ounces whole-wheat rotini: This adds a nutty flavor and boosts fiber to keep the dish hearty and wholesome.
- 1 large head broccoli (about 1 pound): Fresh florets brighten the casserole with a satisfying crunch and vibrant green color.
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil: For sautéing, this adds richness and helps develop the savory mushroom sauce.
- 1 small white onion, thinly sliced: A subtle sweetness that forms a foundation for the sauce’s depth.
- 8 ounces baby bella (cremini) mushrooms, thinly sliced: Earthy mushrooms add umami and a meaty texture that complements the chicken.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with fragrant warmth and complexity.
- 3 tablespoons flour: This thickens the sauce to achieve that creamy, rich texture without heaviness.
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock: Adds moisture and a flavorful base to the sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups milk: Creamy milk balances the sauce and keeps it luscious.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: A subtle tang that brightens the sauce and layers in complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and fragrance.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided: Sharp cheddar brings flavor and melty goodness throughout and sprinkled on top.
- 2 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken: Protein-packed chicken makes the casserole a complete, satisfying meal.
How to Make Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole with Whole-Wheat Rotini and Cheddar Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole-wheat rotini until just al dente; the pasta should still have a tiny bit of chew to it to hold up in the casserole. About a minute before the pasta finishes cooking, toss in the broccoli florets so they become tender but maintain their vibrant color and slight crunch. Drain everything together and set aside—this combo is the base of our casserole’s hearty texture and fresh vegetable goodness.
Step 2: Make the Mushroom Sauce
Next, heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and baby bella mushrooms, cooking until they soften and caramelize slightly—this deepens their earthy flavor beautifully. Toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant to add warmth. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well, allowing it to cook for a minute to remove any raw taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable stock and milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. Season with Dijon mustard, sea salt, and black pepper, then let it simmer until thickened. Stir in one cup of sharp cheddar cheese to melt fully, making the sauce luxuriously creamy.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
In a large mixing bowl or directly in your baking dish, combine the cooked whole-wheat rotini, tender broccoli, luscious mushroom sauce, and shredded chicken. Mix gently but thoroughly so every bite gets that perfect balance. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and spread it evenly. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly and warm throughout. Then sprinkle the remaining cup of sharp cheddar over the top and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese melts into a golden, irresistible crust. Remove from the oven and let it rest a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole with Whole-Wheat Rotini and Cheddar Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh and colorful finish, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top. A light dusting of paprika or a squeeze of lemon juice helps brighten each bite, adding layers of flavor that enhance the warmth of the casserole. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving adds a little kick and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a hearty one-dish meal, but if you want to round things out, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted root vegetables. Light and fresh pickled vegetables also make a fantastic counterpoint to the creamy, cheesy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual family dinners, serve it straight from the casserole dish with a big spoon. For a special gathering, plate individual servings in small, oven-safe ramekins and bake until bubbly for a personal touch. You can even layer a bit of extra cheese on top and broil for a minute to create a crispy golden crust that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover casserole to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making leftovers almost better than the original meal.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole with Whole-Wheat Rotini and Cheddar Recipe freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw completely in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. Adding a splash of milk before heating helps keep the casserole creamy and prevents it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of whole-wheat rotini?
Absolutely! While whole-wheat rotini adds a lovely nutty flavor and more fiber, you can swap in penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta depending on your preference or dietary needs.
What can I substitute if I don’t have chicken stock?
Vegetable stock works perfectly in this recipe, keeping it lighter but still full of flavor. If you don’t have either, you can use water with a bit of extra seasoning, but the taste won’t be as rich.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Certainly! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding protein-packed ingredients like chickpeas or tofu. Using vegetable stock and extra mushrooms will keep the flavor depth intact.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour in the sauce with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch. Make sure your mustard and broth are also gluten-free to avoid any surprises.
Can I use fresh cheese instead of shredded cheddar?
While shredded sharp cheddar melts nicely and adds a robust flavor, you could experiment with cubed fresh cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder, gooey texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a comforting, nutritious, and utterly delicious recipe, look no further than this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole with Whole-Wheat Rotini and Cheddar Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and cozy, cheesy goodness that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I can’t encourage you enough to give it a try—your taste buds and your family will thank you!
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Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole with Whole-Wheat Rotini and Cheddar Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole combines whole-wheat rotini, fresh broccoli florets, tender chicken, and a flavorful mushroom sauce made with sautéed vegetables and sharp cheddar cheese. Baked to perfection, this wholesome casserole offers a comforting and nutritious meal that balances protein, fiber, and rich flavors while using healthier ingredients like whole-wheat pasta and olive oil or butter alternatives.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces whole-wheat rotini pasta
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 1 pound)
Sauce and Cooking
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 small white onion, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces baby bella (cremini) mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole-wheat rotini pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. One minute before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water to blanch. Drain pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
- Make the Mushroom Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion, mushrooms, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat, cooking for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable stock and milk until smooth. Add the Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Simmer gently, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl or directly in a baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, mushroom sauce, and diced or shredded cooked chicken. Spread the mixture evenly in a baking dish. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until bubbly. Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup cheese evenly on top, and return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Serve hot, garnished with additional freshly cracked black pepper and herbs if desired.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with plant-based protein or additional vegetables and use vegetable stock.
- Use low-fat milk or milk alternatives to make it lighter.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Add herbs like thyme or parsley to enhance flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the broccoli; it should retain some crunch.
- You can prepare the casserole in advance and freeze it before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
