This delightful one-skillet cheesy chicken Alfredo casserole combines penne pasta, tender broccoli and shredded rotisserie chicken smothered in a creamy sauce. To simplify the sauce, we opt for a pre-shredded Italian cheese blend. Though cheese blends vary, they typically contain Parmesan cheese, imparting the traditional Alfredo flavor. Seek blends with aged cheeses or blends that include sharp cheeses like provolone or Asiago for a richer flavor profile.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups whole-wheat penne (about 10 ounces)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
  • 6 cups small fresh broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup lower-sodium chicken broth
  • 3/4 cup reduced-fat cream cheese (6 ounces), cubed
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 teaspoons italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded italian cheese blend, divided
  • 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Directions

  1. Position oven rack 6 inches from heat source; preheat broiler. Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil over high heat. Add pasta; cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente, about 8 minutes. Reserve 1 1/4 cups of the cooking water; drain the pasta.
  2. Melt butter in a large broiler-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, 2 to 3 minutes. Add garlic; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add broccoli and broth; cover and cook, undisturbed, until the broccoli is tender and bright green, 3 to 4 minutes.
  3. Stir in cream cheese, milk, the reserved cooking water, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, pepper and salt. Cook, stirring often, until a creamy sauce forms, about 2 minutes. Add 1 cup cheese; cook, stirring constantly, until melted, about 1 minute. Add the pasta and chicken; cook, stirring frequently, until heated through. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup cheese.
  4. Broil until the cheese is bubbling and browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Top with Parmesan and parsley.