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Chicken Noodle Casserole With Broccoli & Cheese

Chicken Noodle Casserole With Broccoli & Cheese

Creamy and hearty Chicken Noodle Casserole with Broccoli & Cheese combines tender chicken, al dente egg noodles, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese in a comforting baked dish. Perfect for quick family dinners, this one-dish meal is nutritious, flavorful, and easy to prepare, featuring a creamy mushroom or chicken soup base with aromatic onion and garlic. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breasts or thighs, shredded or diced

Pasta & Vegetables

  • 8 ounces egg noodles
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy & Sauce

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup milk or cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil

Toppings (Optional)

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs like thyme or parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain well. Steam or blanch the broccoli florets briefly until just tender to preserve their bright green color. Cook the chicken breasts or thighs in a skillet until golden and fully cooked, then shred or dice for the casserole.
  2. Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion and garlic in butter or olive oil until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the cream of mushroom or chicken soup and milk, heating gently while stirring to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or parsley.
  3. Combine All Elements: Mix the cooked noodles, broccoli, shredded chicken, and most of the shredded cheddar cheese into the creamy sauce. Ensure everything is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.
  4. Add the Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, followed by breadcrumbs or crushed crackers if desired for a crunchy topping. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the noodles; slightly undercook since they will finish cooking in the oven and absorb the sauce.
  • Use fresh broccoli for better texture and color compared to frozen.
  • Mix sharp and mild cheeses to deepen the flavor profile.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to firm up for easier slicing.
  • Try topping with crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, broccoli casserole, cheesy casserole, chicken noodle casserole, comfort food, family dinner, easy casserole, baked chicken dish