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
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
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
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
Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 375°F
Prepare Casserole Dish
Lightly spray the inside of a 9x13 casserole dish with cooking spray.
Time: PT1M
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
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
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
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
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
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)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Chicken Tenderloins: cooked rotisserie chicken, diced breast meat
- Instead of Rotini Pasta: fusilli, penne
- Instead of Frozen Broccoli Florets: fresh broccoli florets
- Instead of Cheddar Jack Cheese: sharp cheddar, mozzarella
- Instead of Cream of Chicken Soup: cream of mushroom soup, homemade white sauce
- Instead of Milk: half‑and‑half, plant‑based milk
- Instead of Black Pepper: white pepper
- Instead of French Fried Onions: crispy fried shallots, toasted breadcrumbs
- Instead of Cooking Spray: butter, oil
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Microwave or Steamer
- Mixing Bowl
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon
- 9x13 Casserole Dish
- Aluminum Foil
- Oven
- Measuring Cups
- Grater (optional) (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- 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
Chef Tips from the Video
- Shred the cheese yourself for a smoother melt; pre‑shredded cheese can contain anti‑caking agents.
- If using fresh broccoli, steam until just tender (about 3‑4 minutes) to avoid over‑cooking.
- A pinch of nutmeg in the creamy base adds a subtle warmth.
Troubleshooting
Casserole is dry
Stir in an extra ¼‑½ cup of milk before baking.
Casserole is soggy
Bake uncovered for an additional 5‑10 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
Cheese isn’t melting
Increase oven temperature to 385°F for the last 5 minutes or cover with foil to retain heat.
Fried onions aren’t crisp
Leave the casserole uncovered for a few extra minutes, or broil for 1‑2 minutes watching closely.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3‑4 days.
Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze in a freezer‑safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat covered, then uncover for the last 5 minutes.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble the casserole up to step 8, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- The assembled, uncooked casserole freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole in American comfort food cuisine?
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.
What are the traditional regional variations of chicken and broccoli casserole in the United States?
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.
How is Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole traditionally served in American family meals?
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.
What occasions or celebrations is Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole traditionally associated with in American culture?
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.
What makes Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole special or unique in American casserole cuisine?
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.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole?
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.
Why does this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole recipe use cream of chicken soup instead of a homemade roux?
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.
Can I make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole ahead of time and how should I store it?
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.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole is done cooking?
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.
What does the YouTube channel April's Home specialize in?
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.
How does the YouTube channel April's Home's approach to American comfort cooking differ from other cooking channels?
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.
Last updated: August 25, 2026
