This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Topped with gooey mozzarella and baked to perfection, it’s a comforting and hearty dish perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- Pasta: 8 oz (250 g)
- Broccoli: 1 head (about 2 cups, florets separated)
- Chicken fillets: 2 (about 400 g, diced)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (for frying)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Mushrooms: 8 (about 200 g), sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Cream: 2 cups (500 ml)
- Parmesan cheese: 3 oz (90 g), grated
- Nutmeg: 1 teaspoon
- Olive oil: 1 teaspoon (for greasing)
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 small package (150 g, shredded)
- Fresh parsley: 1 bunch (2 tablespoons, chopped)
Directions
- Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli:
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken and Vegetables:
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onion until translucent. Add mushrooms and garlic, cooking until tender and fragrant.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cream, Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg. Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add cooked chicken and broccoli to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
- Assemble the Pasta Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy chicken and broccoli mixture. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm with a side of crusty bread or a crisp salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or a light soup for a comforting dinner.
- Add extra Parmesan on top for an extra cheesy finish.
Cooking Tips
- Use any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli for this recipe.
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken with garlic powder and Italian herbs before cooking.
- Make the dish spicier by adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in protein from chicken and cheese.
- Broccoli adds vitamins C and K, along with fiber.
- Calcium-rich from the cheese and cream.
Dietary Information
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: 450
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 20 g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Freezing: Freeze baked portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with comforting flavors.
- Easy to prepare with pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
- Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
- A complete meal in one dish with protein, carbs, and veggies.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines wholesome ingredients with indulgent flavors. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress. The cheesy topping and creamy sauce make every bite irresistible, while the easy preparation ensures it’s stress-free to make. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, thaw and drain the broccoli before adding it to the dish. - Can I substitute the cream?
Half-and-half or evaporated milk can be used as lighter alternatives. - Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works well and saves time. - What other cheeses can I use?
Cheddar, Gruyère, or fontina can replace or complement mozzarella. - Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. - How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?
Cover the dish with foil for the first 10 minutes of baking to retain moisture. - Can I add other spices?
Yes, Italian seasoning, paprika, or garlic powder enhance the flavor. - Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. - How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave until warmed through. - Can I add breadcrumbs to the topping?
Yes, mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan and a bit of olive oil for a crispy topping.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight with your loved ones! 😊