Imagine a warm, golden casserole fresh from the oven, filled with tender pasta, succulent chicken, crisp broccoli, and earthy mushrooms, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. That’s exactly what you get with Baked Rotini with Chicken, Broccoli & Mushrooms—a dish that satisfies cravings, feeds a crowd, and brings irresistible aroma to your kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a celebratory family meal, this recipe delivers comfort, flavor, and nutrition in every bite.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!With a combination of creamy textures, melted cheese, and fresh veggies, this casserole isn’t just a meal—it’s a moment of joy on a plate. Let’s dive into why this dish will quickly become a staple in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Rotini with Chicken, Broccoli & Mushrooms
Quick & Easy – Ready in just under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
Hearty & Protein-Packed – Shredded chicken makes it filling and family-approved.
Veggie-Friendly – Broccoli adds crunch, color, and essential nutrients.
Cheesy Comfort – Cheddar cheese creates a golden, melty topping everyone loves.
Budget-Friendly – Uses simple ingredients you likely have in your pantry.
Customizable – Swap chicken for turkey or add bell peppers for a twist.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare in advance and bake when ready.
Kid-Approved – Creamy, cheesy, and flavorful without overwhelming spices.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need for a delicious Baked Rotini with Chicken, Broccoli & Mushrooms. Pro tips and substitutions included to make it your own:
Cooked chicken – Shredded or diced, fresh or leftover rotisserie chicken works beautifully.
Fresh broccoli – Chopped into bite-sized florets for tender-crisp texture.
Mushrooms – Button or cremini, sautéed lightly for enhanced earthy flavor.
Rotini pasta – Whole wheat or gluten-free options can be substituted.
Cream of mushroom soup – Creates a creamy base; lighter versions available for a healthier dish.
Mayonnaise – Just a spoonful adds richness without overpowering other flavors.
Milk – Whole or 2% milk to make the sauce smooth and creamy.
Shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp or mild, melted cheese is key to the golden top.
Breadcrumbs – For crunch; panko works well for extra crispiness.
Butter – Melted and mixed with breadcrumbs for a golden-brown finish.
Optional spices – Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance flavor.
How to Make Baked Rotini with Chicken, Broccoli & Mushrooms
Follow these step-by-step instructions for the perfect casserole:
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or use non-stick spray.
2. Cook Pasta
Boil rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté Veggies
In a skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until lightly browned. Add broccoli florets and sauté for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Make the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, milk, and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth.
5. Combine Ingredients
Add cooked pasta, chicken, and sautéed vegetables to the sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
6. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese evenly on top. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole for a golden, crunchy topping.
7. Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
8. Serve
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm for maximum comfort and flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Rotini with Chicken, Broccoli & Mushrooms
How do you make it creamy without being too heavy?
Use a mix of cream of mushroom soup and milk, and add mayonnaise sparingly. This balances creaminess without making the dish too dense.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Thaw and drain frozen broccoli before mixing to avoid excess water, which can make the casserole soggy.
What’s the best way to prevent mushy pasta?
Cook pasta al dente and slightly undercook it since it will bake with sauce. This ensures the final texture is tender yet firm.
How to make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free rotini and ensure the breadcrumbs are certified gluten-free. The creamy sauce is naturally gluten-free if you check the soup label.
Best Ways to Serve
Serve with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Pair with a light white wine for weekend dinners or family celebrations.
Crosslink idea: Check our Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta for a similar cheesy comfort dish.
Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven for quick weekday meals.
Nutrition per Serving (approximate)
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 720mg
Calcium: 180mg
Iron: 2.5mg
Percent daily values based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips: Microwave at 70% power for 2–3 minutes or bake at 350°F until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole a day before, cover with foil, and refrigerate. Bake when ready—add 5–10 minutes to baking time if chilled.
Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! Turkey, ham, or even cooked shrimp can replace chicken while keeping the creamy texture intact.
How do I make it extra cheesy?
Layer in more shredded cheddar or mix in mozzarella. For a golden crust, broil for the last 2 minutes.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach work beautifully. Adjust the sauté time to maintain texture.
Variations
Low-Fat Version: Use reduced-fat soup, milk, and cheese.
Vegan Version: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use dairy-free cheese and soup.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Regional Flavors: Add sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor punch.
Conclusion
Nothing beats the warmth of Baked Rotini with Chicken, Broccoli & Mushrooms straight from your oven. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables make it a family favorite that’s easy to customize. Try this recipe tonight and experience the magic of comfort food elevated to an irresistible level.