If you’re a fan of hearty, satisfying dishes, you’ll love this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake. It’s not just comfort food—it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that combines creamy pasta, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli into a single, bubbling dish. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even a dinner party, it will delight anyone who loves pasta (and who doesn’t?).
This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating a flavorful, homemade meal that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or new to the kitchen, this recipe ensures delicious results. Roll up your sleeves—let’s get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what makes this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake stand out. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, creaminess, and nutrition.
Core Ingredients
- Chicken Breast
- Tender, protein-packed chicken breast forms the heart of this dish. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option!
- Pasta (Penne or Rotini)
- Short pastas, like penne or rotini, hold the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is loaded with flavor.
- Fresh Broccoli Florets
- Vibrant broccoli adds a healthy dose of fiber and a pop of color, balancing the richness of the sauce.
- Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheeses
- Cheddar adds sharp, bold flavor, while mozzarella ensures that iconic, melty texture. A match made in cheesy heaven.
- All-Purpose Flour, Butter, and Milk
- The building blocks of the creamy and customizable homemade sauce.
Optional Additions
- Garlic and Onion: Add depth of flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a little heat!
- Parmesan Cheese: Extra richness on top.
Preparing the Ingredients
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Lightly season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sauté in a skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of olive oil until fully cooked (about 7–8 minutes per side).
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes, then dice or shred.
Pro Tip: Want to save time? Use pre-cooked shredded rotisserie chicken.
Step 2: Boil the Pasta
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.
Pro Tip: Always undercook pasta by about 2 minutes before baking to prevent it from turning mushy.
Step 3: Steam the Broccoli
- Blanch broccoli florets by boiling them for 2 minutes, then quickly drain and plunge them into cold water. This keeps their bright green color intact.
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Layering the Pasta Bake
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
- Toss cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken together in a large mixing bowl for an even distribution.
Step 2: Use the Perfect Baking Dish
- Spread the mixture evenly in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures every serving is packed with flavor.
Pro Tip: Use a glass or ceramic dish to see those bubbling edges forming as your bake cooks to perfection!
Mastering the Creamy Sauce
The sauce is where all the magic happens. It ties everything together beautifully!
Ingredients for the Sauce
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (whole milk or 2%)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Step 1: Make a Roux
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste (about 1 minute).
Step 2: Add Milk and Cheese
- Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure it’s lump-free. Bring to a simmer, then stir in 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. Reserve the extra cheese for the topping!
Customization Ideas
- For a garlic kick, add minced garlic to the butter before whisking in the flour.
- Prefer it even richer? Swap half the milk for heavy cream.
Baking It to Perfection
Instructions
- Pour your luscious cheese sauce over the pasta-chicken-broccoli mix in the dish. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Top with shredded mozzarella (and the extra cheddar) for that irresistible cheesy crust.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, or until golden bubbles form on top.
Pro Tip: For an even crispier top, switch to a broiler setting for the last 2 minutes!
Serving Suggestions
For the full experience, spruce up your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake with these ideas:
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of Parmesan for added flair.
- Pairings: Serve alongside a refreshing green side salad or crunchy garlic bread.
- Occasions: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping—heat, eat, and enjoy all week long.
Why It’s Great for Your Health
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutritional benefits!
- Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair and energy.
- Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, aiding immunity and bone health.
- Pasta adds wholesome carbohydrates, delivering a perfect energy boost.
- Cheese and milk offer calcium and protein, strengthening bones and muscles.
Making it at home also means you control the sodium and other additives, creating a healthier alternative to store-bought options.
Wow Your Taste Buds with This All-in-One Dish
That’s it—your ultimate comfort food recipe that’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. The Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a crowd-pleaser you’ll turn to time and time again.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or for a night of indulgence on your own, this dish delivers every single time. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your variation!
We’d love to hear from you—tag us on social media with your photos and feedback. Happy baking!
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