Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 8 oz (250 g) pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
• 1 head of broccoli (cut into florets)
• 2 chicken fillets (sliced into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce:

• Butter (for frying)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 8 mushrooms (sliced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups (500 ml) cream
• 3 oz (90 g) Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 tsp nutmeg

For Baking:

• Olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
• 1 small package mozzarella (grated or sliced)

Garnish:

• 1 bunch fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 4–6

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This allows the broccoli to cook while retaining its vibrant green color and slight crunch.
3. Drain the pasta and broccoli, then set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat a knob of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and sauté until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add another knob of butter. Sauté the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms until softened and golden.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

1. Lower the heat and pour the cream into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir to combine.
2. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and nutmeg, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet with the cream sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil and transfer the pasta mixture into the dish.
3. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella evenly over the top.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and slightly golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
2. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

Why This Recipe Is Timeless

This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake stands the test of time because it embodies the principles of good cooking: simple ingredients, hearty flavors, and a touch of indulgence. The combination of chicken and broccoli is a classic pairing that pleases even picky eaters, while the creamy sauce elevates the dish into something truly special.

What makes this dish timeless is its adaptability. It can be customized to suit dietary preferences or to include whatever ingredients you have on hand, like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even bacon. Its ability to satisfy a crowd while being easy to prepare ensures it remains a staple in kitchens worldwide.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta such as penne, rigatoni, or farfalle works well in this recipe.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with sautéed tofu, tempeh, or additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

3. Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

Tips for Perfect Pasta Bake

1. Cook pasta al dente: Overcooked pasta will become mushy when baked.
2. Use fresh cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella melt better and enhance the dish’s flavor.
3. Add a crunchy topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan on top for a crisp finish.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is more than just a meal—it’s a symbol of comfort, warmth, and togetherness. Its hearty, creamy nature makes it a perfect choice for cozy family dinners, while its vibrant flavors and inviting aroma make it a dish you’ll be proud to serve at gatherings. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, this recipe proves that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create something truly special.

The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich cream sauce ensures this dish will be loved by all ages. Its adaptability means you can tweak it to suit your family’s tastes or use it as a canvas to showcase seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re serving it fresh out of the oven or reheating it for a quick weekday meal, this pasta bake retains its deliciousness and charm.

More than just food, this dish creates memories—of laughter-filled family dinners, comforting leftovers on rainy days, and the satisfaction of baking something wholesome from scratch. It’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again, not just for its taste but for the joy it brings to the table.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy the process of creating this timeless Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake. Once you take that first cheesy, creamy bite, you’ll understand why this dish has earned its place in the pantheon of beloved family recipes.