Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole

This recipe from Half-Baked Harvest sounded like one our entire family would enjoy: noodles, cheese, chicken and broccoli. We absolutely loved this and devoured the leftovers with pleasure. 

Well, all of us except my youngest who refused to even try it. Apparently it looked too different for him to process because he took one look at it, got up, carried his plate to the garbage and dumped it. (He does have a genetic disorder that impacts all aspects of his functioning, so most kids might say they don't want to eat it ... he lacks the words, but he can still communicate that message.)

Regardless, we will definitely repeat this recipe in our household. It was a great way to use up some broccoli that was stuck in the back of the freezer, and it's a perfect blend of flavors. It would even be delicious without the chicken for a meatless meal.

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
3/4 lb. boneless chicken breast, cubed
1 tsp. garlic powder
Salt and pepper
2 Tbsp. butter
2 Tbsp. fresh thyme
1 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. cayenne
2 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 cups milk
1 lb. short-cut pasta
3 cups broccoli florets, chopped
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 1/2 cups Cheddar cheese, grated

Preheat oven to 425°F. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot, and cook about 5 minutes. Stir in the chicken, and season with salt and pepper. Add the butter, thyme, paprika, garlic powder and cayenne, and cook until golden and toasted, about 2-3 minutes. 

Add the broth and milk. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, and add the pasta and broccoli. (I waited until the end to add the frozen broccoli, right before I put it in the oven.) Stir frequently until pasta is al dente, and the broth has been absorbed, about 8-10 minutes. 

Stir in parmesan and 1 cup of cheese. If needed, transfer casserole into an oven-safe dish. Scatter remaining cheese on top, and bake 20 minutes. Serve warm with additional thyme and fresh basil if available. Serves 6-8.