Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe for Cozy Nights

Weeknight dinners become magical when you discover this incredible chicken and broccoli pasta bake that combines comfort and nutrition perfectly.

Creamy textures merge with hearty ingredients for a satisfying meal.

Pasta lovers will appreciate how simple ingredients create something extraordinary.

Crispy golden edges promise delightful crunch in every forkful.

Fresh broccoli adds vibrant green color and essential nutrients to the dish.

Our recipe delivers a balanced, wholesome experience that feels like a warm hug.

Dive right in and make something delicious tonight!

Why Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Is Always A Hit

• Craft a One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor combine in this delightful chicken pasta bake that streamlines cooking without sacrificing taste.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like vegetables or proteins to match family preferences, making this recipe incredibly adaptable for different dietary needs.
• Perfect Family Meal Solution: Packed with protein, vegetables, and comforting cheesy goodness, this dish satisfies both kids and adults with its balanced nutrition and crowd-pleasing flavors.
• Quick Weeknight Champion: From prep to table, this recipe delivers a hearty meal without consuming hours in the kitchen, ideal for busy households seeking delicious home-cooked dinners.

What Goes In Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

• Pasta: A hearty base that provides substance and texture to the casserole.
• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that adds delicious flavor and nutritional value to the dish.
• Broccoli Florets: Fresh green vegetable that brings nutritional balance and vibrant color.

• Heavy Cream, Milk, Chicken Broth: Combine to create a rich and smooth sauce that binds the casserole together.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables for deeper flavor.

• Salt, Pepper, Dried Oregano: Essential spices that enhance the overall taste of the chicken.
• Onions, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that provide depth and complexity to the dish.
• Cheddar Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Melty cheeses that create a golden, gooey topping.
• Breadcrumbs: Provide a crispy, crunchy texture to the casserole's surface.
• Olive Oil: Used for cooking chicken and greasing the baking dish.

How To Cook Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F and give a large baking dish a quick olive oil massage to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook Pasta to Perfection

Boil pasta in salted water until it reaches that magical al dente sweet spot, then drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sizzle the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with a flavor explosion of salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken until it’s golden and completely done.

Step 4: Shred and Prep Chicken

Tear the cooked chicken into delightful bite-sized pieces.

Step 5: Create Aromatic Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and dance some diced onions and minced garlic around until they become wonderfully fragrant and see-through.

Step 6: Steam Broccoli

Transform broccoli florets into bright green, tender-crisp gems by steaming.

Step 7: Whip Up Creamy Sauce

Blend heavy cream, milk, and chicken broth into a silky smooth sauce in a mixing bowl.

Step 8: Layer the Casserole Foundation

Spread cooked pasta across the baking dish, then crown it with shredded chicken and steamed broccoli.

Step 9: Pour on the Creamy Goodness

Drizzle the cream mixture evenly over the pasta landscape.

Step 10: Cheese Blanket

Sprinkle a generous layer of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses across the entire dish.

Step 11: Crispy Topping

Dust the top with breadcrumbs for a golden, crunchy finish.

Step 12: Bake to Bubbly Perfection

Slide the casserole into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbling, and breadcrumbs turn a beautiful golden brown.

Step 13: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole chill for 5-10 minutes after baking, allowing the sauce to set before diving in.

Tips To Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Better

• Prevent Pasta Overcooking: Cook pasta just until al dente to maintain a firm texture and prevent mushiness in the final casserole.
• Maximize Chicken Flavor: Season chicken generously with herbs and cook until golden brown to enhance overall dish taste and depth.
• Control Sauce Consistency: Whisk cream mixture carefully to create smooth, even coating without lumps, ensuring every bite is creamy and delicious.
• Crisp Breadcrumb Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly and consider toasting them slightly before adding to guarantee a perfectly crunchy golden finish.
• Resting Time Matters: Allow casserole to rest 5-10 minutes after baking so sauce thickens and flavors meld together for optimal serving texture.

Fun Spins On Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

• Gluten-Free Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly version.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Chicken Casserole: Substitute pasta with riced cauliflower and use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs to reduce carbohydrate content.
• Mediterranean-Style Herb Chicken Bake: Add fresh herbs like basil and thyme, swap mozzarella for feta cheese, and include sun-dried tomatoes for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Protein Alternative: Replace chicken with plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and maintaining the creamy texture of the original recipe.

What Matches With Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the creamy richness, offering a refreshing contrast to the cheesy, hearty casserole.
• Serve with Zesty Green Salad: A light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the dish's heavy texture, adding brightness and crunch.
• Match with Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Grilled asparagus spears complement the chicken and broccoli, providing an additional vegetable side with complementary herb notes.
• Complement with Sparkling Water with Lemon: A bubbly, citrusy drink cleanses the palate between bites, helping to refresh the taste buds during this rich meal.

How To Store Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer casserole to freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freezes perfectly for up to 2 months. Label container with date for easy tracking.
• Place individual portion on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place casserole in baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying.

FAQs For Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

• How can I ensure my chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F, which guarantees the chicken is safe to eat and prevents undercooking.

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly. Just thaw and drain excess water before adding to the casserole to prevent a watery dish.

• What if I don't have both cheddar and mozzarella cheeses?

You can substitute with any combination of melting cheeses like monterey jack, provolone, or even a pre-shredded cheese blend. The key is using cheeses that melt smoothly and create a creamy texture.

Chicken And Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe

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4.6 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comfort meets elegance in this hearty chicken and broccoli pasta bake, blending creamy textures with robust flavors. Homemade warmth fills your kitchen with savory aromas that promise a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 2 lbs chicken breast
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded

Vegetables:

• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 0.5 cup diced onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta and Dairy:

• 16 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 0.5 cup milk

Seasonings and Extras:

• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 0.25 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter

Liquids:

• 0.5 cup chicken broth

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a large baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
2. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano, then heat olive oil in a large skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, approximately 6-7 minutes per side.
4. Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces, combining with the previously cooked shredded chicken.
5. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Steam broccoli florets until bright green and tender-crisp, roughly 4-5 minutes.
7. Create a creamy sauce by whisking together heavy cream, milk, and chicken broth in a separate bowl.
8. Layer the cooked pasta in the prepared baking dish, then top with shredded chicken and steamed broccoli.
9. Pour the cream mixture evenly over the pasta, chicken, and broccoli.
10. Sprinkle both cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the entire dish.
11. Distribute breadcrumbs across the top for a crispy golden finish.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling and breadcrumbs are golden brown.
13. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow sauce to set.

Notes

• Use high-quality chicken breasts for the most tender and flavorful result, ensuring they’re not overcooked to maintain moisture.
• Steam broccoli just until bright green to preserve nutrients and prevent a mushy texture, keeping a slight crunch for better mouthfeel.
• Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a lighter, lower-calorie version without compromising creamy richness.
• Experiment with gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, maintaining the same delicious flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 610
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 53 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 39 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg