Easy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole

Chicken, broccoli, pasta, and plenty of melted cheese make this easy casserole the kind of dinner that works especially well on busy weeknights. It is creamy and comforting without requiring complicated prep, and using cooked chicken turns it into a practical way to get dinner into the oven quickly.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole

This casserole combines the main dish, vegetable, and pasta in one pan. Rotisserie chicken makes prep faster, and the recipe is flexible enough to use whatever short pasta or melting cheese you already have.

It is also a useful make-ahead dinner. Assemble the casserole earlier in the day, refrigerate it, and bake when you are ready to eat.

If easy chicken dinners are becoming part of your weekly rotation, our [Easy Chicken Enchilada Casserole](/article/easy-chicken-enchilada-casserole) and [Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup](/article/creamy-chicken-tortilla-soup) are two more simple options.

Ingredients You'll Need

You will need short pasta such as penne or rotini, cooked shredded or diced chicken, broccoli florets, butter, flour, milk, chicken broth, garlic powder, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs.

Fresh broccoli works especially well, but frozen broccoli can be used too. Thaw it first and drain away excess moisture before adding it to the casserole.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole

Heat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.

Cook the pasta just until al dente. Add the broccoli during the final two minutes of cooking, then drain everything well.

For the sauce, melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in the flour. Gradually add the milk and chicken broth, whisking until smooth. Cook until the sauce begins to thicken, then season it and stir in most of the cheddar.

Combine the pasta, broccoli, cooked chicken, and cheese sauce. Transfer everything to the baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs.

Bake until the casserole is hot and bubbling and the top is lightly golden.

Don't Overcook the Pasta

Because the pasta continues cooking in the oven, stop boiling it while it still has some bite. Pasta that is already very soft before baking can become mushy in the finished casserole.

The same idea applies to the broccoli. A brief blanch with the pasta is enough because it will finish cooking in the oven.

Easy Variations

Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a combination of cheeses. Peas, mushrooms, or chopped spinach can be added with the broccoli.

For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to the sauce. Cooked turkey can replace the chicken.

Make It Ahead

Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until baking time. A refrigerated casserole may need several extra minutes in the oven because it starts cold.

For the crispest topping, you can wait to add the breadcrumbs until just before baking.

What to Serve With It

Because the casserole already includes chicken, pasta, and broccoli, dinner does not need much else. A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm garlic bread are easy sides.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Cool leftovers and refrigerate them in a covered container. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm a larger portion in the oven until heated through.

If the pasta seems dry after refrigeration, adding a small splash of milk before reheating can help loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes. Rotisserie chicken is an easy shortcut. Remove the skin and bones and use about three cups of shredded or diced meat.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes. Thaw the broccoli and drain it thoroughly first so excess water does not thin the cheese sauce.

What pasta works best?

Short shapes such as penne, rotini, rigatoni, or shells work well because they hold the creamy sauce and are easy to serve.

Can I freeze chicken broccoli pasta casserole?

You can freeze the assembled casserole, although creamy sauces and pasta may have a slightly softer texture after freezing and reheating. Wrap it well and thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

A Family Dinner to Keep in Rotation

Easy chicken broccoli pasta casserole uses familiar ingredients in a dinner that is filling, flexible, and simple to prepare. Keep cooked chicken on hand and it becomes an especially convenient option for nights when you need something dependable and comforting.