This dish is a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that’s simple to prepare and budget-friendly. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and hearty broccoli, all smothered in a cheesy sauce. Here’s a detailed recipe with step-by-step instructions and tips to ensure success!
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
- 2 medium chicken breasts (approximately 1 pound, boneless and skinless)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) milk (use the empty soup can to measure)
- 1 bag (12-16 oz) frozen broccoli florets, thawed and drained
- 1 pound large pasta shells (or substitute rotini or penne)
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes
- 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Non-stick cooking spray
Recommended Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for cooking chicken
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish (or equivalent size)
- Aluminum foil
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt.
- Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package directions (typically 8-10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta, drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and cut them into small bite-sized cubes.
- Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil (or butter) in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté until the chicken is cooked through (about 6-8 minutes), ensuring it’s golden on the outside. Set aside.
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- If using frozen broccoli, steam or microwave it until tender but not mushy. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth.
- Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and any extra seasonings you’d like, such as a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne for a slight kick.
- Fold in the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli, ensuring everything is coated evenly with the sauce.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
- Layer the Mixture:
- Pour the pasta-chicken-broccoli mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add the Cheese:
- Nestle the Velveeta cubes evenly throughout the casserole for pockets of gooey, melty cheese.
- Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly on top.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This allows the casserole to heat through and the cheese to melt.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve with a green side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Season as You Go: Ensure each component—chicken, sauce, and pasta—is seasoned to your taste. Layers of seasoning bring the dish to life.
- Customize the Veggies: Swap out broccoli for spinach, peas, or even roasted mushrooms.
- Extra Topping Ideas: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter over the top before baking for a crunchy finish.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for best results.
Why Your Family Will Love It
This casserole is the perfect combination of comfort and convenience. The creamy, cheesy sauce coats every bite of tender chicken, pasta, and broccoli, making it irresistible. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish will have your family asking for seconds!