Are you ready to whip up a dish that will make your taste buds dance? I’m excited to share my recipe for a Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor! With cheesy goodness and tender chicken, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, and I can almost guarantee there won’t be any leftovers! Let’s get cooking!

Cook Time: 39

Prep Time: 15

Yields: 6

Calories: 781

Simple ingredients for a Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Getting the right ingredients is key to making a fantastic Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole that your family will love. Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this comforting dish:

16 ounces rotini pasta (uncooked): This will form the hearty base of our casserole.
2 tablespoons butter: A must for adding richness to the sauce.
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: This brings a lovely flavor and helps sauté the vegetables.
2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, broccoli adds a healthy crunch and vibrant color.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the creamy sauce.
1 cup chicken broth: For that savory depth, choose low-sodium broth if you prefer.
1 cup milk: Whole milk is best for creaminess, but you can use any milk you have on hand.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out the flavors.
⅛ teaspoon chipotle chile powder (optional): If you like a little kick,this will do the trick.
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for that melty,cheesy goodness.
¼ cup onion (finely diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and texture.
1 pound ground chicken: This is the protein powerhouse of our dish.
1 cup sour cream (optional): It makes the casserole extra creamy and flavorful.

Once you have all these ingredients ready, we’ll be set to take the next step in crafting this delightful casserole!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Chicken and broccoli Casserole

Now that you have your ingredients, itS time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole:

Prepare the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, about 7 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain it and cover it to keep warm.

Sauté the vegetables: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss in 1 cup of broccoli florets and sauté for about 5 minutes until they’re tender. Sprinkle the broccoli with flour and cook for an additional minute.

Make the Sauce: Gradually stir in the chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle boil. Pour in the milk, seasoning with salt, pepper, and chipotle powder if you’re using it. Lower the heat and let it simmer until the sauce thickens, around 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and remove from heat.

Cook the Chicken Mixture: In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and ground chicken, cooking until the chicken is browned and no longer pink, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Everything: Preheat your oven broiler to high. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the broccoli cheese sauce, then mix in the chicken mixture. If using sour cream, fold that in for extra creaminess.

Bake the Casserole: Spoon your mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and top with the remaining Cheddar cheese. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese melts and is golden brown around the edges.

Now, take a moment to savor the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as this casserole bakes. It’s a dish your whole family will enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

once your Creamy chicken and Broccoli Casserole is out of the oven, it’s time to indulge! This dish serves approximately 6 people, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Each serving is hearty and satisfying, so you can feel good about sharing it with loved ones.

Serving Suggestions:

I love serving this casserole with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s also great with a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a homemade garlic aioli. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing it with a light, tangy vinaigrette to contrast the creaminess.

Storage Tips:

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens), you can store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, typically about 20-25 minutes. you may want to cover it with foil to keep it from drying out.

If you’d like to save it for later, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it well with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and it will keep for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it,thaw it in the refrigerator overnight,then bake it as directed,adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole fresh from the oven or as a delightful leftover meal!

recipe notes and Troubleshooting for Perfect Casserole

Creating the perfect Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole can sometimes have it’s little hiccups, but I’m here to help you troubleshoot any issues. Here are some tips to ensure everything turns out just right:

Common Issues and Solutions:

Sauce Too Thick or Thin: If your sauce ends up too thick, simply whisk in a bit more chicken broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, let it simmer on low heat a bit longer to thicken up.

Cheese Not Melting: Make sure you’re using freshly shredded cheese rather then pre-shredded, as the anti-caking agents used in packaged cheese can prevent it from melting smoothly.

Cooked Chicken Still Pink: Always ensure that your ground chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Flavor Enhancements:

For added flavor, consider throwing in some garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley when cooking your chicken.You can also experiment with different cheeses; Monterey Jack or a sharp white cheddar can add a new twist to your casserole.These notes should help you navigate your cooking process, ensuring that your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole comes out delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking journey!