Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole Recipe

I absolutely love sharing this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole Recipe with you because it hits all the right comfort food notes. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli—all baked into a bubbly, golden-topped casserole. When life gets busy, this dish is my go-to for a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

You’ll find that this casserole is not only delicious but also quite forgiving, which is perfect if you’re juggling the usual kitchen chaos. Whether you’re cooking for family dinners or need a crowd-pleaser for potlucks, this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole Recipe shines every time with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole Recipe come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Fresh veggies, tender chicken, and a duo of cheeses make this dish both wholesome and indulgent. Here are a few tips I’ve learned to get the best out of each ingredient.

• Extra virgin olive oil: Use good quality oil for a clean, fruity base flavor that enhances the sautéed veggies.
• Yellow onion: Chopping these small pieces finely helps them melt into the dish perfectly without chunks disrupting the texture.
• Carrots: They add a sweet crunch—don’t skip them or you’ll miss that balance of flavors!
• Boneless chicken breasts: Cubed chicken cooks quickly and stays tender here; you can also sub with thighs if you prefer juicier meat.
• Garlic powder: I find garlic powder gives consistent flavor without the risk of burning fresh garlic in the pot.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning throughout to build layers of taste.
• Salted butter: Adds richness to the base and helps meld the spices into a golden crust on your chicken.
• Fresh thyme leaves: Fresh herbs always elevate the dish by adding subtle earthiness and brightness.
• Paprika: This gives a warm, smoky undertone that pairs surprisingly well with creamy cheese.
• Cayenne pepper: Just a pinch adds a gentle kick without overpowering the whole casserole.
• Low sodium chicken broth: Using low sodium allows you to control the seasoning better, avoiding a salty finish.
• Milk: Helps create a creamy sauce that binds everything together nice and smooth.
• Short cut pasta: I like using those little shapes because they trap cheese and sauce in every nook.
• Broccoli florets: Roughly chopped so they bake evenly yet still provide a satisfying bite.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: For sharpness and depth that cuts through the creaminess.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and delivers classic comfort flavor.

Variations

I love tweaking this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole Recipe depending on what I have on hand or the dietary needs of my guests. Feel free to experiment—it’s super adaptable!

• Vegetarian Variation: I’ve swapped chicken for mushrooms and added extra broccoli for a meat-free version that’s still loaded with flavor.
• Spicy Kick: When I want a bit more heat, I add fresh jalapeños or a dash more cayenne—my family loves the spicy twist.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta, and make sure your broth is gluten-free as well; the recipe works just as well.
• Cheese Swap: Mixing in some mozzarella or fontina adds a gooey, stretchy texture that’s a real crowd-pleaser.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies and Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and toss in the chopped onion and carrots. Cook them until they’re soft and fragrant, about five minutes. This step builds a flavorful base, so don’t rush it! Then, add the cubed chicken and season everything with salt and pepper. Stir in salted butter, fresh thyme leaves, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, letting it all cook until the chicken turns golden and the spices toast up nicely—this usually takes 2 to 3 minutes. This is a key flavor-building step I never skip.

Step 2: Add Liquids, Pasta, and Broccoli

Pour in low sodium chicken broth and milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once bubbling, add the pasta and chopped broccoli. Season with salt and pepper again, which helps balance the dish. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has absorbed. This slightly shortened pasta cook time ensures it doesn’t get mushy after baking.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Prepare for Baking

Stir in one cup of shredded cheddar cheese right into the hot pasta mixture to get it all melty and well combined. If your pot isn’t oven-safe, transfer everything to a casserole dish now. Scatter the remaining cheese evenly over the top—this cheesy crown creates that irresistible golden crust. This step is where the magic really happens!

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Bake the casserole at 425°F for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and beginning to brown beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when you see those golden spots and your kitchen is filled with cheesy, savory aroma. Let it rest a few minutes before serving to help it set up perfectly.

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I like to add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped basil on top just before serving—it adds a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma that makes the dish feel a little more special. Sometimes a light dusting of extra Parmesan on top works beautifully too!

Side Dishes

This casserole is wonderfully hearty on its own, but I often serve it with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic roasted green beans to keep things balanced. A slice of crusty bread to mop up the cheesy goodness never hurts either.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve tried layering this casserole in single-serving ramekins for an elegant, personalized touch. It’s also a great dish to sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on the top before baking to add crunch and texture that surprises guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they usually last 3 to 4 days without losing their creamy texture, which is perfect for quick next-day lunches or dinners.

Freezing

Freezing this casserole works well—just keep it in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag. Before baking, I partially cook the pasta to prevent it from getting mushy after freezing and thawing. Then, bake straight from the freezer, adding extra time as needed until bubbly.

Reheating

When reheating leftovers, I cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F to preserve moisture and get the cheese melty again. Microwave works too, just watch that it doesn’t dry out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole Recipe has become one of my kitchen staples because it feels like a special occasion meal yet comes together quickly and easily. I truly believe you’ll enjoy how it balances wholesome ingredients with cheesy indulgence, making it a family favorite in no time. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let this recipe add a little cozy magic to your dinner table just like it did to mine.

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