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Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Noodle Casserole - Hearty Food Ideas

There’s something magical about comfort food. When life gets hectic, a warm plate of casserole can feel like a hug on a chilly day. Broccoli cheddar chicken and noodle casserole has a kind of all-encompassing charm. It's rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying, making you want to enshrine it as a regular in your weekly menu.
As a dietitian and food enthusiast, I know the value of meals that save you time while still nourishing your family. This dish is a go-to, serving up a combination of protein, veggies, and carbs, all wrapped in that comforting cheese sauce. Plus, what's not to love about gooey cheddar cheese?
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 3 cups broccoli florets, roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3/4 pound boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 pound short pasta such as penne or rigatoni

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and a bubbly topping.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
  1. Boil a pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
  1. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and diced carrots. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic powder and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Broccoli
  1. To the skillet, add the cubed chicken and broccoli florets. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the broccoli is bright green but still crisp.
Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce
  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, chicken stock, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, and black pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Stir in the cooked pasta.
Step 6: Cheese it Up
  1. Add half of the cheddar and all of the Parmesan into the mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is combined.
Step 7: Bake It
  1. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar on top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Dig into this delicious casserole with your favorite sides!

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheese make a big difference in flavor.
  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta: You want it al dente to avoid mushy noodles after baking.
  • Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
  • Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
  • Leftovers Are Gold: This casserole stores wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep.