Penne With Chicken & Broccoli Casserole: A Family Favorite

My strongest food memories are often tied to gatherings with family, and there’s one dish that consistently appears on our potluck table, eliciting smiles and quickly disappearing: Penne with Chicken & Broccoli Casserole. I remember the first time my brother-in-law brought it to our annual holiday celebration. The creamy, cheesy aroma wafted through the air, immediately captivating everyone. It’s become a staple ever since, a comforting and satisfying dish that always feels like home.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Yield: 1 casserole
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 (16 ounce) box penne pasta, cooked (I use less sometimes, depending on how “loaded” I want the casserole)
• 2 (16 ounce) jars Alfredo sauce, warmed
• 4 cups cheese, shredded and divided in half (a 4-cheese Mexican blend is a great choice, but any cheese blend you enjoy will work)
• 1 bunch broccoli, cooked (I use a large one, roughly chopped)
• 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, seasoned to taste, cooked, and cut into bite-sized pieces

Equipment Needed

• 13 x 9 inch baking pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Colander

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Prepare a 13 x 9 inch baking pan by lightly spraying it with cooking spray or greasing it with butter to prevent sticking.
2. While the oven is preheating, cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Overcooking the pasta will result in a mushy casserole.
3. If you haven’t already, ensure the broccoli is cooked. Steaming or lightly boiling until tender-crisp is ideal. Drain well to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial to avoid a watery casserole.
4. Also, confirm the chicken breasts are cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces. You can grill, bake, or pan-fry them. Seasoning the chicken to your preference (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika) will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, cooked chicken, and cooked broccoli.
6. Pour the warmed Alfredo sauce over the pasta, chicken, and broccoli mixture. Gently stir to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated in the sauce. Warming the sauce beforehand makes it easier to mix.
7. Add half (2 cups) of the shredded cheese to the mixture in the bowl. Gently stir until the cheese is well incorporated.
8. Pour the entire mixture into the prepared 13 x 9 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly.
9. Sprinkle the remaining half (2 cups) of the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the cheese from burning. The casserole is ready when the cheese is golden brown and the sauce is heated through.
11. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to slightly thicken.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends. Mozzarella, provolone, or a combination of Italian cheeses would also work well.
• Prevent a Soggy Casserole: Ensure the broccoli is well-drained after cooking to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
• Seasoning Matters: Don’t be afraid to generously season the chicken and the sauce. A little garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Broiler Boost: For an extra golden-brown and bubbly top, broil the casserole for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Penne with Chicken & Broccoli Casserole warm, as a main course. It pairs well with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for soaking up the delicious Alfredo sauce.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Freezing is also an option. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture may be slightly altered after freezing and thawing, but the flavor will remain delicious.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	466.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	147 g	32%
Total Fat	16.4 g	25%
Saturated Fat	9.1 g	45%
Cholesterol	64.5 mg	21%
Sodium	623.9 mg	25%
Total Carbohydrate	54.9 g	18%
Dietary Fiber	8.2 g	33%
Sugars	1.3 g	5%
Protein	26.9 g	53%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken for a delicious vegetarian version. Consider adding other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure your Alfredo sauce is also gluten-free.
• Lower-Fat: Use light Alfredo sauce and reduced-fat cheese. You could also add more broccoli to bulk up the casserole without adding extra calories.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a touch of heat.
• Different Protein: Instead of chicken, try using cooked sausage, shrimp, or even tofu for a different flavor profile.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole to prevent a watery consistency.

Q: Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can. Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker, topping with cheese. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.

Q: How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together while cooking?
A: Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the boiling water and stir the pasta occasionally while it’s cooking.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Rotini, farfalle (bow tie), or even macaroni would work well in this casserole. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Q: Is it necessary to warm the Alfredo sauce before mixing it in?
A: Warming the sauce makes it easier to mix evenly with the other ingredients, resulting in a smoother and creamier casserole. It’s not strictly necessary, but recommended.

Final Thoughts

This Penne with Chicken & Broccoli Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a symbol of family, comfort, and shared joy. I encourage you to try it for your next gathering, or simply as a satisfying weeknight meal. Don’t be afraid to personalize it with your favorite ingredients and flavors. I’m confident it will become a treasured dish in your own family, just as it has in mine. And if you give it a try, please let me know how it turns out – I’d love to hear about your experience! Pair it with a crisp glass of white wine for a truly delightful meal.