Name: Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces whole wheat or high-protein pasta; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast; 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (lightly steamed); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 1/2 cups low-fat milk; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (optional topping)

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If you’re searching for a comforting yet nutritious dish, this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe is a top contender. Creamy sauce, lean chicken, bright green broccoli, and hearty whole wheat pasta create a casserole that not only satisfies but also fuels your body. The blend of cheesy goodness and tender veggies is the kind of meal I crave after a long day, knowing it brings balance to the table without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re planning ahead for busy nights or eager to introduce new favorites to your family menu, this recipe is a delicious, wholesome crowd-pleaser.

Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this casserole is in its simple lineup of ingredients—each handpicked for their health benefits, flavor, and ability to bring the whole dish together. From the robust texture of whole wheat pasta to the creamy sauce enriched with Greek yogurt, every component shines and supports the star players: chicken and broccoli.

Whole wheat or high-protein pasta (8 ounces): Adds fiber and a chewy bite that complements the creamy sauce superbly.
Cooked shredded chicken breast (2 cups): Lean protein that makes this casserole both filling and nutritious—rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
Fresh broccoli florets (3 cups, lightly steamed): The green goodness provides crunch, color, and a vitamin boost.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A healthy fat that lends a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the garlic.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Delivers aromatic warmth and a flavor punch that infuses every bite.
Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out the savory base of your sauce.
Dried basil (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a burst of earthy freshness.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to heighten and balance the flavors.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Finishes the seasoning with a gentle kick.
Low-fat milk (1 1/2 cups): Creates a silky base for the light, creamy sauce.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the sauce into casserole perfection; no heavy cream required.
Plain Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): Makes the sauce tangy and extra creamy without excess calories.
Shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup): Melts right in for that irresistible, gooey cheese effect.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds umami depth and a golden finish on top.
Whole wheat breadcrumbs (1/4 cup, optional): Boost the texture with a crunchy topping—totally optional but so satisfying!

How to Make Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Cookware

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), setting the stage for a casserole that bakes up beautifully golden and bubbling. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this tiny step ensures your pasta won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Steam the Broccoli

Cook your whole wheat or high-protein pasta just until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set it aside. While the pasta cooks, quickly steam the broccoli for 2–3 minutes until it’s bright green and just beginning to get tender. You want it to hold its shape and a slight crunch—it will finish cooking in the casserole.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Start the Sauce

Grab a medium saucepan and heat a splash of olive oil over medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, letting the aroma fill your kitchen. Stir in onion powder, basil, salt, and black pepper so every spoonful of sauce brims with layered flavor.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and low-fat milk until totally smooth—this is the secret to a creamy but healthy sauce. Pour the mixture into your saucepan and keep stirring for 4–5 minutes. The sauce will thicken up nicely, promising a luscious, satisfying result without feeling heavy.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce with Greek Yogurt

Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the Greek yogurt. This instantly transforms the sauce, adding a silky tang that feels rich but light. Make sure the sauce is nice and smooth before moving on.

Step 6: Combine Everything in a Mixing Bowl

In your largest mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and that wonderfully creamy sauce. Sprinkle in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until the entire mixture is evenly coated, cheesy, and temptation is at an all-time high.

Step 7: Assemble and Bake

Pour the casserole mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer. If you’re going for that golden crunch, shower the top with whole wheat breadcrumbs. Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until everything is hot and bubbly, with a lightly golden top. Let it rest for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to settle and the sauce to thicken even more.

How to Serve Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

This Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe absolutely comes alive with a finishing touch. Try a light shower of fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color, or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for more savory depth. A quick twist of black pepper over each plate makes it look and taste restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

Pair your casserole with a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted carrots for extra vegetables and color on your plate. Warm whole wheat rolls or a slice of crusty bread help soak up every last drop of creamy sauce—trust me, you won’t want to leave any behind!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, portion the casserole into ramekins for individual servings—kids especially love having their own little dish. You can also pop a serving under the broiler for a minute to take the breadcrumb topping to the next level of crispy deliciousness. If you’re going potluck style, just scoop hearty helpings into bowls, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and watch it disappear.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe holds up beautifully in the fridge. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days, making sure to cool it completely before refrigerating. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, meaning tomorrow’s lunch could be even yummier.

Freezing

Want to get ahead for busy weeks? You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. Wrap your baking dish tightly with plastic wrap followed by foil, or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. It will stay tasty for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, cover and bake the casserole at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions in 1–2 minute bursts, stirring halfway to keep it creamy. Add a little splash of milk if it looks dry, and it will perk right back up!

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Simply thaw and drain frozen broccoli, and then steam it briefly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole. It’s a handy shortcut that still delivers great flavor and texture in the Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe.

What kind of chicken is best for this casserole?

Shredded cooked chicken breast is my favorite for its lean, tender quality, but rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works too, just be sure to slice or shred it for even mixing.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, the Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe adapts easily! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs or leave the breadcrumb topping off altogether. Make sure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt, low-fat sour cream or even blended cottage cheese make great creamy alternatives. If you’re keeping it dairy-free, use a plain, unsweetened non-dairy yogurt instead.

Is it possible to add more vegetables?

Of course! Stir in a handful of spinach, peas, or even chopped bell peppers before baking. The Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe is all about versatility and adding more color and nutrition just makes it better.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe has a permanent spot in my home kitchen, and I hope it becomes a go-to for you too. Give it a try—there’s something so satisfying about pulling a bubbling, golden pan from the oven, knowing it’s both nourishing and incredibly delicious. Enjoy every cheesy, veggie-packed bite!

Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe

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4.8 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in this comforting yet healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole, a delicious blend of whole wheat pasta, tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, flavorful sauce. Baked to perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s a satisfying meal for the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole:

8 ounces whole wheat or high-protein pasta
2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
3 cups fresh broccoli florets (lightly steamed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups low-fat milk
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (optional topping)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the pasta and broccoli: Cook pasta until al dente. Steam broccoli for 2–3 minutes until tender.
Prepare the sauce: Sauté garlic in olive oil, add seasonings, then whisk in milk and cornstarch. Stir in Greek yogurt.
Combine ingredients: Mix pasta, chicken, broccoli, and sauce with cheeses. Pour into baking dish.
Bake: Top with breadcrumbs if desired and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden.
Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.