Chicken Penne Casserole with Broccoli and Parmesan Recipe

Picture this: The comforting aroma of melted mozzarella mingling with garlicky, fragrant broccoli and tender chunks of chicken fills your kitchen. The golden, bubbly top of this casserole shines invitingly as you pull it from the oven, promising a soul-satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This Chicken Penne Casserole with Broccoli and Parmesan Recipe is a perfect blend of creamy, savory, and cheesy, with just enough freshness and texture to keep every bite exciting. Whether you’re feeding family or craving a cozy dinner, this dish is a true winner that’s as easy to prepare as it is irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Penne Casserole with Broccoli and Parmesan Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 50 minutes, it’s a fuss-free way to get a hearty, home-cooked dinner on the table without spending all evening in the kitchen.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples and fresh broccoli, meaning no shopping headaches or complicated steps—just straightforward, tasty cooking.
• Perfect for Weeknights: A one-dish wonder that feeds 6, making meal prep and cleanup a breeze after a busy day.
• Impressive Presentation: The bubbling golden cheese top looks stunning coming straight from the oven, making it ideal for casual dinners or small gatherings.
• Customizable: Easy to swap veggies or cheese based on what you have, so it can fit your family’s tastes perfectly every time.

Why This Chicken Penne Casserole with Broccoli and Parmesan Recipe Works

The magic behind this Chicken Penne Casserole with Broccoli and Parmesan Recipe lies in the harmonious layering and vibrant textures. Cooking the penne slightly under al dente and then adding broccoli to the same boiling pot allows the florets to stay tender but still crisp, perfectly balancing the creamy sauce. The sauce itself, a luscious blend of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese, brings depth and richness without overpowering the fresh flavors. Finally, the shredded mozzarella topping melts to a golden bubbly finish, creating irresistible pockets of gooey cheesy goodness. It’s simple, effective, and foolproof every time.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these straightforward, flavorful ingredients means your casserole is just a few steps away from becoming a golden, bubbling masterpiece your family will love.

• 8 ounces uncooked penne: The sturdy pasta backbone that soaks up the creamy sauce without getting mushy.
• 4 cups broccoli florets: Adds a fresh, green crunch and vibrant color to brighten the dish.
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup: Creates a rich, comforting base layer of flavor and creaminess.
• 1 cup milk (2% recommended): Lightens the soup base into a silky sauce that coats everything evenly.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and luxurious smoothness to the sauce blend.
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, it deepens the savory profile perfectly.
• 1 packet Italian dressing mix: Infuses the casserole with bright, herbaceous notes without much effort.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: A subtle flavor boost that enhances the overall taste complexity.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): Brings punchy aroma and warmth, waking up the dish’s flavors beautifully.
• 2 cups shredded cooked or rotisserie chicken: The star protein, juicy and tender, adding hearty substance.
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables: Adds extra nutrition and a burst of color to every spoonful.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella: Melts to a golden, gooey crown that seals in all the deliciousness.
• Salt & pepper (to taste): Balances and brightens every bite.

Ingredient Substitutions & Tips

• Broccoli florets: Swap with cauliflower or green beans for a different veggie texture and flavor.
• Cream of chicken soup: Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup if preferred, or make your own homemade sauce for extra freshness.
• Sour cream: Greek yogurt makes a great tangy, lighter alternative.
• Shredded cooked chicken: Leftover turkey or even shredded rotisserie duck works beautifully here.

How to Make Chicken Penne Casserole with Broccoli and Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Prepare oven and pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F and set the oven rack to the top third position. Boil a large pot of salted water for the pasta. Cook the penne for 6 minutes if package directions say 8 minutes total, so it’s slightly underdone. Add the broccoli florets halfway through cooking—about 2 minutes before the pasta is done—to keep them vibrant green and tender-crisp.

💡 Pro Tip: Reserve a little pasta water before draining; it can be used to loosen sauce if needed.

Step 2: Combine pasta and broccoli in casserole

Drain the pasta and broccoli together, then transfer them into a 9×13 casserole dish. This layering sets the stage for the creamy sauce to fully envelop the pasta and veggies.

💡 Pro Tip: Spread pasta evenly in the dish so the sauce distribution is consistent.

Step 3: Make the creamy sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, freshly grated Parmesan, Italian dressing mix, onion powder, and minced garlic until perfectly smooth and luscious.

💡 Pro Tip: Whisk the sauce ingredients separately before adding to the casserole to ensure even seasoning.

Step 4: Add chicken and mixed vegetables

Mix the shredded chicken and frozen mixed vegetables into the casserole over the pasta and broccoli. Then pour the creamy sauce on top. Toss gently with a spatula or spoon until every bite will have that lovely, cheesy coating.

💡 Pro Tip: Use cooked chicken that’s still warm to help meld the flavors faster.

Step 5: Top with mozzarella and bake

Smooth the mixture flat in an even layer, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella all over the top. Slide the casserole into the oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until piping hot and bubbly.

💡 Pro Tip: If you want a golden top, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes but watch it carefully!

Step 6: Season and serve

Once baked, season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving so it settles beautifully.

💡 Pro Tip: Resting also makes serving cleaner and easier.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from these common pitfalls:

• Overcooking pasta: Cooking penne fully in boiling water makes it mushy after baking; always undercook.
• Skipping broccoli timing: Adding broccoli too early can result in sogginess and dull color.
• Not stirring sauce well: Clumps or uneven flavor can make the dish less enjoyable.
• Using pre-shredded Parmesan: It lacks flavor and affects sauce texture.
• Overbaking: Bake just until bubbly to avoid drying out the casserole.
• Neglecting salt and pepper: Season post-bake to balance flavors perfectly.

Delicious Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic Chicken Penne Casserole with Broccoli and Parmesan Recipe, feel free to experiment with these tasty twists to keep your dinners exciting:

Spinach and Artichoke Power-Up

Add a cup of fresh spinach and half a cup of chopped artichoke hearts for an Italian-inspired green twist packed with vitamins and texture.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil

Stir in a handful of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil leaves to add sweet, herbaceous pops that elevate every bite.

Lemon Zest and Herb Kick

Brighten the sauce with a teaspoon of lemon zest and a dash of dried oregano or thyme for a fresh, lively flavor profile.

Mild Cajun Flavor

Sprinkle in a teaspoon of mild Cajun seasoning and a pinch of smoked paprika to add a gentle smoky warmth without overwhelming the creaminess.

Extra Cheesy Mushroom Blend

Sauté a cup of sliced mushrooms and mix in shredded cheddar along with mozzarella for a richer cheese experience with earthy notes.

Vegan-Friendly Adaptation

Use plant-based cream soups, vegan cheese, and tofu-based chicken substitutes to enjoy a cruelty-free, equally delicious version.

How to Serve Chicken Penne Casserole with Broccoli and Parmesan Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or basil sprigs add a vibrant green freshness while a light dusting of extra Parmesan provides a salty, nutty finish.

Side Dishes

A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the rich casserole beautifully. Garlic bread or warm focaccia also complement the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in mini ramekins for a stylish dinner party presentation, or place the casserole in a rustic cast iron skillet and bring it straight to the table for farmhouse charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen beautifully, making for a delightful next-day meal.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven covered with foil until heated through. Remove foil at the end to crisp the cheese top again.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Cook and shred fresh chicken breasts or thighs before adding to the casserole for a fabulous homemade touch.

Is it okay to use other pasta shapes?

Yes, penne works best for holding the sauce, but rigatoni, ziti, or penne rigate are excellent substitutes that trap creamy goodness well.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Swap regular penne with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free as well.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

Homemade roux-based white sauce with chicken broth can replace the canned soup for a fresher, less processed alternative.

Can I make this casserole vegan or vegetarian?

Use plant-based alternatives for chicken, cheese, and cream soup. Incorporate extra vegetables or chickpeas for protein.

How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?

Cook pasta slightly underdone and drain well. Avoid thawing frozen vegetables fully to keep excess water at bay.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead and bake later?

Yes, assemble the casserole but don’t bake. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake just before serving.

How long does the casserole keep warm after baking?

It stays warm and appetizing for about 15 to 20 minutes out of the oven, perfect for timing with other dishes.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Penne Casserole with Broccoli and Parmesan Recipe is a true kitchen treasure—comforting, flavorful, and wonderfully versatile. It’s the kind of meal that becomes a new family favorite quickly, warming both the belly and the heart. From the cheesy golden topping to the tender pasta wrapped in creamy savory sauce, every bite feels like a celebration of simple ingredients done right. I hope you enjoy making and savoring it as much as I do!

Have you tried this Chicken Penne Casserole with Broccoli and Parmesan Recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below. If you loved this recipe, please share it with friends and family. Happy cooking! 😊

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