If you’re craving a cozy, wholesome dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and comforting pasta all baked to bubbly perfection, this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe is just what you need. It’s packed with nutritious ingredients that nourish both body and soul without sacrificing any flavor. The creamy, velvety cashew-based sauce adds a delicious twist to the classic casserole, ensuring every bite is rich yet light. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or feeding a hungry family, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll want on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to making this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe shine. Each element plays a key role, from the nutty whole wheat pasta that adds fiber, to the roasted broccoli that delivers fresh, vibrant color and texture. The chicken provides satisfying protein, while the cashew sauce gives you creamy indulgence without the heaviness of traditional cheese sauces.
- 8 ounces whole wheat rotini pasta: Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and hearty texture while boosting fiber content.
- 3-4 cups broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli brings color, crunch, and essential vitamins to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil: A light, healthy oil perfect for roasting broccoli to golden perfection.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, cubed: Ready-cooked chicken keeps things easy and protein-packed.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (regular or vegan), divided: Use your favorite cheese for melty, flavorful goodness.
- 1/2 cup creamy cashew butter: This is the base for the luscious sauce, adding creaminess and a subtle nutty taste.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened plain cashew or almond milk: Keeps the sauce smooth without extra sweetness.
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Adds depth and moisture to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup almond flour: Helps thicken the sauce naturally without gluten.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a savory warmth to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a gentle smoky note that complements the chicken and broccoli.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: For a hint of herbal brightness and visual appeal.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by warming your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Meanwhile, fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil for cooking the pasta. It’s important to get these started early so everything cooks smoothly and on time for the perfect casserole assembly.
Step 2: Roast the Broccoli
Place the broccoli florets evenly in a 9×13 inch casserole dish, drizzle them with avocado oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roasting the broccoli at high heat for about 15 minutes helps develop their natural sweetness and gives a slight crisp-tender bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the broccoli roasts, cook your whole wheat rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside to prevent sogginess later. Properly cooked pasta is essential to balance the textures in the final dish.
Step 4: Make the Cashew Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the creamy cashew butter, unsweetened cashew or almond milk, chicken or vegetable broth, almond flour, garlic powder, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until you achieve a smooth, silky sauce. This sauce is the magic that binds everything with a velvety, dairy-free creaminess that feels indulgent yet healthy.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
In the casserole dish with the roasted broccoli, combine the cooked pasta, cubed chicken, 1 cup of the shredded cheese, and the cashew sauce. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until the pasta and broccoli are evenly coated in that luscious sauce. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top for a golden, bubbly finish. Bake the casserole in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starting to brown.
Step 6: Serve
Once the casserole is out of the oven, set it aside to cool for a few minutes. This rest time allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve and even more enjoyable as the flavors meld together beautifully.
How to Serve Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your plate, sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives over the top. A light dusting of nutritional yeast can add a cheesy, nutty flavor if you’re leaning vegan. These little touches brighten up the flavors and add that inviting ‘finished’ look to your dish.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with light sides such as a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted cherry tomatoes. The fresh acidity cuts through the creaminess of the casserole, balancing the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming dinner party presentation. Alternatively, top each scoop with a dollop of dairy-free sour cream or a spoonful of your favorite salsa for a fun, customizable twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld even more after a day, making your leftovers just as wonderful as the first serving.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, this casserole freezes well for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers before baking or freeze the fully baked casserole wrapped tightly in foil and plastic wrap for easy meals down the road.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through and bubbly again, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings covered loosely to avoid drying out the pasta and broccoli.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While whole wheat rotini adds fiber and texture, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta varieties depending on your preferences or dietary needs.
Is the cashew sauce suitable for those with nut allergies?
The cashew sauce is a key part of the recipe’s creaminess, but if you have a nut allergy, you can try substituting it with a dairy-free cream alternative like oat-based cream or a béchamel made from seeds like sunflower or pumpkin.
Can I prepare this dish without chicken?
Yes! This casserole is very versatile and can be made vegetarian by leaving out the chicken or swapping in plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu for a delicious twist.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe vegan, simply use vegan cheese and ensure your broth is vegetable-based. The cashew sauce is already plant-based and perfect for vegan diets.
What’s the best way to make sure the broccoli doesn’t get soggy?
Roasting the broccoli separately with a bit of oil before mixing it into the casserole helps maintain its texture. Avoid overcooking the pasta too, so the overall dish stays firm and fresh.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like a warm casserole to bring comfort, flavor, and healthful ingredients together in one beautiful dish. This Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe is a personal favorite that pairs nutrition with incredible taste and simple preparation. Give it a try and watch it become a regular in your kitchen rotation — your friends and family will thank you endlessly!
Print
Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A wholesome and delicious Healthy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole that combines whole wheat pasta, tender chicken, and roasted broccoli in a creamy cashew-based sauce, topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a nutritious family meal ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces whole wheat rotini pasta (or any pasta)
- 3–4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
Protein and Cheese
- 3 cups cooked chicken, cubed
- 2 cups regular or vegan shredded cheese, divided
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
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Begin boiling a pot of water for the pasta to cook later.
- Roast broccoli: Place the broccoli florets 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 until tender and slightly roasted.
- Cook pasta: While the broccoli roasts, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make cashew sauce: In a bowl, whisk together cashew butter, 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: Add the cooked pasta, cubed chicken, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and the prepared cashew sauce to the roasted broccoli in the casserole dish. Mix everything well to combine evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole back into the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after baking before serving. Enjoy your healthy and comforting chicken broccoli pasta casserole!
Notes
- You can substitute whole wheat rotini with any other type of pasta you prefer.
- For a vegan version, use vegan shredded cheese and vegetable broth.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- If you don’t have almond flour, you can substitute with gluten-free flour or oat flour.
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente since it will continue to bake in the oven.
