Name: Chicken Noodle Casserole with Broccoli and Swiss Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups dry pasta or noodles (rotini recommended); 1 medium yellow onion, diced small; 3 cloves garlic, finely minced; 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen); 2 1/2 cups cooked and shredded chicken; 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or diced into small cubes); 1 cup heavy cream (do not substitute); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste); Cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 25 reviews

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, tender noodles, vibrant broccoli, and the rich, nutty flavor of Swiss cheese, this Chicken Noodle Casserole with Broccoli and Swiss Cheese Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a warm, satisfying casserole that feels like a big, cozy hug on a plate—perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for busy days. This casserole is easy to make, packed with flavor, and has that golden cheesy top that everyone loves. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of your favorite weeknight meals that you’ll want to make again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Top view of several white bowls and a white plate on a white marbled surface. The largest bowl in the center holds shredded light beige chicken. To its top left, a medium bowl is filled with dry, yellow spiral pasta. Below that, a smaller bowl contains frozen bright green broccoli florets. To the right of the chicken bowl, a small bowl has creamy white sauce, another small bowl with shredded pale yellow cheese, and a tiny bowl with yellow oil. Further down, a small bowl contains pale yellow butter cubes. Near the bottom right, a tiny bowl holds black and white pepper. At the bottom left corner, a whole light brown onion sits next to two peeled cloves of garlic. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple ingredients are the heart of this recipe, each one playing a vital role to balance taste, texture, and color in the Chicken Noodle Casserole with Broccoli and Swiss Cheese Recipe. From the tender chicken to the crisp broccoli and melty cheeses, these essentials come together beautifully.

3 cups dry pasta or noodles: Rotini works great for catching sauce, but feel free to use your favorite shape.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies perfectly.
1 medium yellow onion, diced small: Brings a subtle sweetness when cooked down.
3 cloves garlic, finely minced: Infuses the dish with fragrant depth.
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen): Adds a pop of green, crisp texture, and nutrition.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors—adjust to your taste.
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Gives just the right kick of warmth.
1 cup heavy cream (do not substitute): Creates a luscious, creamy sauce that binds everything together.
2 1/2 cups cooked and shredded chicken: The hearty protein star of the casserole.
2 cups shredded Swiss cheese: Offers a mild tang and superb meltability.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or diced small cubes): Melts nicely to create a gooey, golden topping.

How to Make Chicken Noodle Casserole with Broccoli and Swiss Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Dish

First things first, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare your casserole dish with cooking spray. Using a 3 to 4-quart size will give the casserole plenty of room to bake evenly and develop that gorgeous crust on top.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente, then rinse and drain it well. While the noodles are cooking, you can get started on sautéing the vegetables, so everything comes together quickly.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and add the diced onion. Sauté for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently until the onion is soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant—it’s those little aromas that build the depth of flavor everyone will love.

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Season

Toss the broccoli florets into the skillet with salt and pepper. Stir to combine, then cover the pan with a lid to create steam and help the broccoli cook in about 3 minutes. Make sure to use small florets so each bite is tender and easy to enjoy within the casserole.

Step 5: Bring in the Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and let it warm up until just gently bubbling, about 2 to 3 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil hard; you want a gentle heat to keep the cream silky and smooth without separating.

Step 6: Add Chicken and Swiss Cheese

Now stir in your shredded chicken and shredded Swiss cheese. Keep stirring so the cheese melts beautifully into the creamy mixture, coating everything in delightful cheesiness that’s going to make this casserole unforgettable.

Step 7: Combine with Noodles and Transfer

Mix the cooked noodles into the skillet, folding them into the creamy chicken and broccoli blend. Once everything is evenly combined, transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out for even baking.

Step 8: Top with Mozzarella and Bake

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the casserole’s surface. Pop it into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the cheese melts and turns a lovely light golden brown. For an extra special touch, sprinkle a buttery panko breadcrumb topping alongside the mozzarella for a crispy finish.

How to Serve Chicken Noodle Casserole with Broccoli and Swiss Cheese Recipe

A close-up view of a creamy pasta casserole served on a white marbled surface. The dish has a base layer of spiral pasta mixed with shredded chicken and small green broccoli pieces spread evenly throughout. The pasta is covered with melted light yellow cheese creating a smooth creamy texture. The casserole is presented in a large white casserole dish in the background, while a smaller portion is served on a simple white plate in the front. The colors mainly show soft yellows from the pasta and cheese and pops of green from the broccoli. The overall look is warm and comforting, highlighting the cheesy and creamy layers photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives brightens the casserole with color and a fresh herbal note, balancing the richness of the cheese and cream.

Side Dishes

Serve this casserole alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess, or warm crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables also pair wonderfully to add texture variety and extra flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant presentation, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with a fresh grating of nutmeg or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. You can also add cooked bacon crumbles on top for a smoky crunch that pairs perfectly with Swiss cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Noodle Casserole with Broccoli and Swiss Cheese Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes it a terrific option for next-day lunches or quick weeknight dinners.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully. To freeze, prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave for about 30 seconds to one minute or until warmed through. To preserve that delightful cheesy crust, you can reheat in a 350-degree oven for 10 to 15 minutes, uncovered.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese offers a mild nuttiness, you can swap in Gruyère, Fontina, or even sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of how each cheese melts to keep the creamy texture.

Can I substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?

Heavy cream gives this casserole its luscious texture, so substitutions aren’t recommended if you want that rich consistency. However, half-and-half might work in a pinch but expect a thinner sauce.

Is it possible to use other vegetables instead of broccoli?

Definitely! Vegetables like cauliflower, green beans, or even asparagus can be great swaps. Just make sure to adjust cooking times so your veggies stay tender but not mushy.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure any seasoning or broth used is gluten-free as well. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s easy to adapt.

Can this dish be made vegetarian?

You can easily make this vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding in extra vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas for protein. Just increase the cheese or add a plant-based protein if desired.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Noodle Casserole with Broccoli and Swiss Cheese Recipe is one of those dishes that feels homemade and special without any fuss. It’s creamy, comforting, and filled with wholesome ingredients that everyone loves. Whether you’re feeding the family or looking for a make-ahead meal that reheats beautifully, this casserole is pure comfort food magic. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a favorite in your kitchen too!