Looking for a comforting and satisfying dinner that’s easy to make and perfect for the whole family? This creamy chicken and broccoli pasta bake is just what you need! Packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this dish will quickly become a weeknight staple. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a cozy meal, this recipe delivers on both flavor and convenience.
Ingredients:
For the Pasta Bake:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini work best)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken is perfect for convenience)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente (slightly firm), according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it turns lightly golden.
- Gradually add the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens.
- If using, stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth, adding extra richness to the sauce.
3. Assemble the Bake:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and creamy sauce. Mix everything together until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
4. Bake the Dish:
- Bake the pasta bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Serve:
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
Tips for the Best Pasta Bake:
- Add extra flavor: Toss in cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added depth of flavor.
- Swap the broccoli: Feel free to substitute the broccoli with spinach, zucchini, or your favorite veggie for a different twist.
- Dietary preferences: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs, and adjust the cheese to fit your taste.
- Make it your own: Feel free to adjust the cheese blend—adding mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar gives the dish great depth, but you can also experiment with Gruyère or gouda for a more unique flavor.
Conclusion:
This creamy chicken and broccoli pasta bake is a family-friendly dish that combines the best of comfort food with healthy ingredients. With tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and perfect for leftovers. Enjoy this cozy, cheesy dish as a weeknight meal or a comforting weekend dinner!