Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

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.

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