Broccoli Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

Broccoli Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by April's Home on YouTube.

Prep: 45 min | Cook: 33 min | Total: 1 hr 32 min

Cost: $15.22 total, $2.54 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pound Chicken Tenderloins (frozen, steam until cooked through then chop)
  • 1 pound Rotini Pasta (dry, uncooked)
  • 12 ounce Frozen Broccoli Florets (steam for about 5 minutes, do not fully cook)
  • 2 cup Cheddar Jack Cheese (shredded; reserve a small amount for topping)
  • 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup (Campbell's, 10.5 oz)
  • 0.75 cup Milk (whole or 2% milk)
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
  • 1.5 cup French Fried Onions (divided; some mixed in, remainder for topping)
  • 1 spray Cooking Spray (to coat casserole dish)

Instructions

  1. Cook and Chop Chicken

    Steam the frozen chicken tenderloins until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, about 8‑10 minutes, then chop into bite‑size pieces.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Cook Rotini Pasta

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the rotini and cook according to package directions (8‑10 minutes) until al dente. Drain in a colander and set aside.

    Time: PT12M

    Temperature: 212°F

  3. Partially Cook Broccoli

    Place the frozen broccoli florets in a microwave‑safe bag or bowl, cover, and microwave for about 5 minutes until just thawed and slightly tender.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Preheat Oven

    Preheat the oven to 375°F.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 375°F

  5. Prepare Casserole Dish

    Lightly spray the inside of a 9x13 casserole dish with cooking spray.

    Time: PT1M

  6. Make the Creamy Base

    In the mixing bowl combine the cooked rotini, cream of chicken soup, milk, black pepper, and 1 cup shredded cheddar‑jack cheese. Stir until evenly coated.

    Time: PT5M

  7. Add Chicken, Broccoli, and Onions

    Fold the chopped chicken, partially cooked broccoli, and 1 cup of French fried onions into the pasta mixture. Add an additional 0.75 cup cheese and stir gently.

    Time: PT3M

  8. Transfer to Dish and Cover

    Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, sprinkle a small handful of cheese on top, and cover tightly with aluminum foil.

    Time: PT3M

  9. Bake Covered

    Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling around the edges.

    Time: PT25M

    Temperature: 375°F

  10. Add Fried Onion Topping and Finish Baking

    Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining French fried onions evenly over the top, and return to the oven uncovered for 8 minutes, or until the onions are golden and crisp.

    Time: PT8M

    Temperature: 375°F

  11. Rest and Serve

    Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens slightly.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
20 g
Carbohydrates
35 g
Fat
15 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Contains dairy, Contains gluten

Allergens: Dairy, Wheat, Soy (in fried onions)

Last updated: April 11, 2026

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Broccoli Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

Recipe by April's Home

A comforting one‑dish casserole packed with tender chicken, al dente rotini, broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, topped with crispy fried onions. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

EasyAmericanServes 6

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
21m
Prep
1h 1m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 32m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$15.22
Total cost
$2.54
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Ensure chicken reaches 165°F before chopping
  • Do not overcook the broccoli in the microwave
  • Cover the casserole with foil for the first 25 minutes to keep the top from over‑browning
  • Add French fried onions only during the final uncovered bake for crisp texture

Safety Warnings

  • Use oven mitts when handling the hot casserole dish.
  • Steam from the broccoli can cause burns; lift the bag carefully.
  • Make sure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole in American comfort food cuisine?

A

Chicken and broccoli pasta casserole is a classic American comfort dish that emerged in the mid‑20th century when convenience foods like canned soups and frozen vegetables became household staples. It reflects the post‑war era’s emphasis on quick, one‑dish meals that combine protein, vegetables, and carbs in a creamy, cheesy sauce.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of chicken and broccoli casserole in the United States?

A

While the basic recipe is fairly uniform, some regions add local twists—southern cooks may use cheddar and a dash of hot sauce, while Midwestern versions might incorporate corn or use a cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken. The topping can also vary, with some using crushed crackers or breadcrumbs instead of fried onions.

cultural
Q

How is Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole traditionally served in American family meals?

A

It is typically served hot straight from the oven as a main course, often accompanied by a simple green salad, steamed green beans, or fresh fruit. In many households it’s a go‑to dish for potlucks and casual gatherings because it feeds a crowd and reheats well.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

The casserole is popular for weeknight family dinners, potluck gatherings, and casual holiday meals such as Thanksgiving leftovers or Christmas Eve. Its ease of preparation makes it a favorite for busy schedules and large family reunions.

cultural
Q

What makes Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole special or unique in American casserole cuisine?

A

Its combination of a creamy soup‑based sauce, shredded cheese, and a crunchy fried‑onion topping creates a satisfying contrast of textures. The use of rotini captures sauce in its twists, ensuring each bite is flavorful, which sets it apart from simpler noodle‑and‑cheese bakes.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole?

A

Common pitfalls include overcooking the broccoli (which becomes mushy), under‑seasoning the sauce, and baking uncovered for the entire time, which can dry out the top. Also, forgetting to cover the casserole for the first 25 minutes can cause the cheese to burn before the interior is hot.

technical
Q

Why does this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole recipe use cream of chicken soup instead of a homemade roux?

A

The canned soup provides a quick, consistent thickening agent and adds savory depth without extra steps. For home cooks seeking speed, it eliminates the need to melt butter, whisk flour, and simmer milk, while still delivering a creamy texture.

technical
Q

Can I make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. Assemble the casserole through step 8, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked casserole; thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole is done cooking?

A

The casserole should be bubbling around the edges, the cheese fully melted, and the fried‑onion topping golden brown and crisp. The interior should be creamy yet set enough that a spoon can lift a portion without it sliding apart.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel April's Home specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel April's Home focuses on easy, family‑friendly American comfort food recipes, often using pantry staples and frozen ingredients to create quick, one‑dish meals suitable for busy households.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel April's Home's approach to American comfort cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

April's Home emphasizes minimal prep, straightforward ingredient lists, and step‑by‑step narration that highlights shortcuts like using canned soups and frozen vegetables, whereas many other channels may focus on gourmet techniques or elaborate plating.

channel

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