This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a comforting, cheesy dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With tender pasta, juicy chicken, and fresh broccoli coated in a rich, creamy sauce, it’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare. Topped with melted cheddar and Parmesan, this baked dish is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Preparation Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) pasta (penne or rotini works well)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it for about 2-3 minutes until tender. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer.
- Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the skillet and stir well.
- Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the creamy chicken and broccoli mixture. Stir until the pasta is well coated.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a simple green salad for a lighter accompaniment.
- Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls for a heartier meal.
- Add a side of roasted vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Serve with a glass of white wine or iced tea for a refreshing complement.
- Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
Cooking Tips:
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit more chicken broth or cream to adjust the consistency.
- For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese over the top before baking.
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Feel free to swap cheddar with mozzarella or Gruyère for a different flavor.
- If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of heavy cream.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in protein from the chicken and cheese, supporting muscle health.
- Rich in calcium from the dairy, promoting strong bones and teeth.
- Good source of fiber from the broccoli and pasta, aiding digestion.
- Contains healthy fats from the olive oil and cheese.
- Broccoli is packed with vitamins like vitamin C and K, supporting immune and bone health.
Dietary Information:
- Rich in protein
- High in calcium
- Contains healthy fats
- Vegetarian adaptation possible by replacing chicken with tofu or more vegetables
- Gluten-free option available if using gluten-free pasta
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a complete meal in one dish, perfect for busy weeknights.
- The combination of chicken, broccoli, and cheese makes it both satisfying and nutritious.
- It’s kid-friendly and a great way to sneak in vegetables.
- You can easily customize it with different cheeses or add-ins like mushrooms or spinach.
- The dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta, juicy chicken, and fresh broccoli in a velvety, cheesy sauce. With just the right amount of richness and flavor, it’s a perfect dish to bring to potlucks, serve for dinner, or enjoy as leftovers. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make this a must-try recipe for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works as well. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. - How can I make this recipe healthier?
Use low-fat cream or milk, reduce the amount of cheese, and use whole wheat pasta for a healthier version. - Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers would be great additions to the dish. - Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.