If you’re searching for a comforting yet nourishing dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe is the answer. Packed with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat pasta, tender roasted broccoli, lean chicken, and a luscious cashew-based sauce, it perfectly balances flavor, texture, and nutrition. This casserole not only pleases the palate but also fuels your body with goodness, making it a winning meal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the key to crafting this delightful casserole. Each component plays a vital role—from the nutty, fiber-rich whole wheat pasta to the creamy, dairy-free cashew sauce that brings everything together with a smooth, rich texture.
- Whole wheat rotini pasta (8 ounces): Provides a hearty, fiber-filled base that holds up beautifully in the casserole.
- Broccoli florets (3-4 cups): Adds a vibrant pop of green and a satisfying crunch after roasting.
- Avocado oil (2 tablespoons): Perfect for roasting broccoli with a mild flavor and healthy fats.
- Cooked chicken, cubed (3 cups): The star protein that keeps the dish satisfying and filling.
- Shredded cheese, regular or vegan (2 cups, divided): Adds gooey, melty richness with your choice of dairy or plant-based options.
- Creamy cashew butter (1/2 cup): The secret ingredient for a luscious, dairy-free sauce full of flavor and creaminess.
- Unsweetened plain cashew milk (3/4 cup): Keeps the sauce smooth while complementing the cashew butter’s texture.
- Chicken or vegetable broth (1 cup): Adds depth and moisture to the sauce without overpowering the other flavors.
- Almond flour (1/4 cup): Thickens the sauce naturally while adding a subtle nuttiness.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Brings aromatic warmth and savory notes.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Introduces a mild smoky sweetness that rounds out the seasoning.
- Dried parsley (1/2 teaspoon): A fresh, herbal finish that brightens the overall dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This ensures your broccoli roasts to tender perfection while the casserole bakes later. Meanwhile, get a pot of water boiling for the pasta to save time.
Step 2: Roast the Broccoli
Place the broccoli florets in a 9 by 13-inch casserole dish, drizzle with avocado oil, then season with salt and pepper. Roasting the broccoli not only enhances its natural sweetness but also gives it a slightly crisp texture that balances beautifully with the creamy elements.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the broccoli roasts for about 15 minutes, cook the whole wheat rotini according to the package instructions. Drain it well and set it aside to avoid any sogginess later in the casserole.
Step 4: Make the Cashew Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the creamy cashew butter, cashew milk, chicken or vegetable broth, almond flour, garlic powder, paprika, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will become the luscious, dairy-free sauce that ties the whole casserole together with creamy indulgence and subtle spice.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Add the cooked pasta, cubed chicken, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and the smooth cashew sauce to the roasted broccoli in the casserole dish. Mix everything gently but thoroughly so each bite has a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Top the casserole with the remaining cheese for that irresistible golden, bubbly finish. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese melts and the casserole is heated through.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes. This step lets everything set slightly, making those satisfying slices easier to serve and enjoy without losing any of the creamy goodness.
How to Serve Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten the casserole visually and flavor-wise, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top right before serving. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can also add a refreshing finish that contrasts perfectly with the creamy, cheesy base.
Side Dishes
If you want to keep the meal balanced and fresh, serve this casserole alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. Alternatively, steamed green beans or a simple cucumber and tomato salad provide a cool crunch that complements the warm, hearty casserole beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. Layer some extra roasted broccoli or fresh cherry tomatoes on top before baking to add bursts of color. This makes it perfect for dinner parties or special family meals where presentation delights just as much as taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for weekday lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This casserole freezes remarkably well. Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes or until warmed through to keep the cheese melty and the casserole perfectly moist. Alternatively, use a microwave on medium power in short intervals to avoid drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a richer flavor and stay juicy, making them a fantastic alternative to chicken breast in this casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply use vegan cheese and omit the chicken or substitute it with plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. The cashew sauce keeps the casserole creamy and satisfying.
Can I use different vegetables in this casserole?
Feel free to swap or add vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or bell peppers. Roasting them first ensures they stay tender and flavorful in the dish.
What type of pasta works best if I don’t have rotini?
Any short pasta like penne, shells, or farfalle works wonderfully. Whole wheat varieties are best for that added fiber and wholesome taste.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe is mild with just a hint of paprika for warmth, making it perfect for all ages and taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of wholesome comfort food in every hearty, creamy bite. It’s reliable, delicious, and easy to pull together, making it a staple you’ll return to time and time again. Give it a try—you might just have a new favorite casserole on your hands!
Print
Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A wholesome and comforting Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole made with whole wheat pasta, roasted broccoli, tender chicken, and a creamy cashew-based sauce, topped with melted cheese. This nutritious casserole is perfect for a family-friendly dinner, balancing protein, veggies, and fiber.
Ingredients
Pasta & Vegetables
- 8 ounces whole wheat rotini pasta (or any pasta)
- 3–4 cups broccoli florets
Protein & Dairy
- 3 cups cooked chicken, cubed
- 2 cups regular or vegan shredded cheese, divided (1 cup for mixing, 1 cup for topping)
Cashew 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
Other
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Begin boiling a pot of water in preparation for cooking the pasta.
- Roast broccoli: Place the broccoli florets evenly in a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Drizzle with avocado oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to bring out a tender yet slightly crisp texture.
- Cook pasta: While the broccoli roasts, cook the whole wheat rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make cashew sauce: In a bowl, whisk together creamy cashew butter, unsweetened plain cashew milk, chicken or vegetable broth, almond flour, garlic powder, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until you achieve a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Assemble casserole: 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. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients well. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the assembled casserole back into the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, creating a golden, appetizing crust.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and avoid burning.
Notes
- You can substitute the chicken with tofu or a plant-based protein to make this vegan.
- Using whole wheat pasta boosts the fiber content and keeps the dish hearty.
- Ensure the cashew butter is smooth for the creamiest sauce consistency.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a dairy-free version, use vegan cheese alternatives.
