Easy Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe Without Pasta

Introduction

Have you ever found yourself craving a comforting, cheesy casserole but want to avoid the carbs and heaviness that pasta often brings? It’s a common challenge for many home cooks and health-conscious eaters alike. This Easy Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe Without Pasta is the perfect solution that merges rich, creamy flavors with wholesome ingredients—without relying on pasta. Whether you’re looking to cut down on carbs, add more greens to your diet, or just want a filling one-dish meal, this casserole ticks all the boxes. Let’s explore why this recipe is a go-to favorite for busy weeknights and cozy meals alike.

Ingredients List

To make this delicious cheesy broccoli chicken casserole, you’ll need simple ingredients that are easy to find in most kitchens or grocery stores. Here’s the detailed list, with substitutions and dietary alternatives to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great too)
– 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained)
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping (use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese (substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
– 1/2 cup sour cream (can be swapped for a plant-based alternative)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but adds a nice depth of flavor)
– 1/2 cup chopped onions (yellow or white)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth (use vegetable broth for vegetarian)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (enhances creaminess and flavor)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Timing

When planning your cooking, it’s useful to know how much time this dish demands. This casserole is a great option for those tight on time but who still want a hearty, homemade meal:

– Prep time: 15 minutes
Get everything chopped, shredded, and ready to go while the oven warms up. You’ll enjoy the aroma from minced garlic and sautéed onions stimulating your appetite as you work.

– Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Baking melds the creamy cheese sauce with tender broccoli and flavorful chicken, creating that irresistible golden top.

– Total time: Approximately 40–45 minutes
Including mixing and baking, this casserole fits perfectly into weeknight meal plans or casual weekend dinners.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Ingredients

Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, chop your broccoli into bite-sized florets and shred the cooked chicken if not done already.

Chef’s tip: Using rotisserie chicken drastically cuts prep time without sacrificing flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant—about 3–4 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base.

Step 3: Mix Cheese Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well incorporated.

Tip: If cream cheese is too stiff, soften it by microwaving for 15 seconds.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add cooked chicken, sautéed onions and garlic, and broccoli to the cheese mixture. Stir gently to coat evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top for a beautifully golden crust. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and cheesy on top.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and texture firm up.

Chef’s tip: Resting also makes scooping easier and prevents the dish from being too runny.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of what you’re getting per serving (serves 4):

– Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
– Protein: 35g
– Carbohydrates: 10g (mostly from broccoli)
– Fat: 18g (from cheese and cream cheese)
– Fiber: 3g
– Calcium: High (from cheese)
– Vitamin C: High (thanks to broccoli)

This casserole offers a great balance of protein and fats, making it satiating without heavy carbs.

Healthier Alternatives

Looking to lighten the dish further or boost nutrition? Try these swaps:

– Replace cream cheese and sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for lower fat and higher protein.
– Use low-fat or reduced-fat cheeses to cut calories while maintaining taste.
– Add extra vegetables like spinach or cauliflower for volume and nutrients.
– For a dairy-free version, substitute cheese with nutritional yeast and use plant-based cream alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy broccoli chicken casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments depending on the season and occasion:

– A fresh, crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
– Roasted sweet potatoes add a touch of natural sweetness.
– For a colder day, serve alongside warm crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
– Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color and brightness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overcooking broccoli: This leads to mushiness and loss of flavor. Blanching or using fresh broccoli helps maintain texture.
– Skipping sautéing onions and garlic: It’s essential for layering the dish’s depth of flavor.
– Using too much liquid: Be mindful with broth amounts—the mixture shouldn’t be soupy before baking.
– Not resting the casserole: Serving immediately can result in a watery consistency. Patience yields the best result.

Storing Tips

To keep leftovers delicious:

– Allow the casserole to cool completely before refrigerating.
– Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
– Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to retain texture—consider covering with foil to prevent drying out.
– Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

This savory, easy-to-make broccoli chicken casserole stands out as a versatile, cheesy, and nourishing dinner option without relying on pasta. It’s perfect for busy cooks seeking comfort food with a nutritious twist. Don’t hesitate to customize it according to your taste and dietary needs!

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FAQs

Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything, combine the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate. Bake within 24 hours for the best freshness.

Q2: What type of chicken works best?
Rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, but grilled or poached chicken breasts also work well.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Cauliflower, zucchini, or bell peppers make delicious additions and increase the veggie load.

Q4: How do I prevent the casserole from drying out when baking?
Using enough creamy sauce and covering with foil for the first 20 minutes helps retain moisture.

Q5: Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, it’s an excellent low-carb option due to the absence of pasta and focus on protein and vegetables.

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Looking for more wholesome casserole ideas? Check out our Healthy Green Bean Casserole and Chicken and Cauliflower Bake to keep your weeknight dinners exciting and nutritious!