Looking for a comforting and delicious dish that the whole family will love? This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect combination of tender chicken, wholesome broccoli, and pasta, all smothered in a creamy cheese sauce. It’s not only hearty and filling but also an easy-to-make meal that works great for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. This recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a homemade, restaurant-quality meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and ingredients, this dish comes together in no time, making it ideal for a last-minute meal.
- Family Favorite: The creamy sauce and tender pasta will make this a hit with both kids and adults.
- Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, swapping the chicken for a different protein, or using gluten-free pasta.
Ingredients
To make this delectable Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake, you’ll need:
- 12 oz (340g) rigatoni or penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2%)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente (firm to the bite). About 3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux (thick paste), ensuring that it doesn’t burn. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Allow the mixture to cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
Next, add the Italian seasoning, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses have melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken. Pour the creamy sauce over the top and gently toss everything together to evenly coat the ingredients. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling. If you’d like a more crispy, browned top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the pasta bake from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Serve your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this creamy, cheesy dish!
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh broccoli and chicken for the best flavor and texture. You can also substitute with frozen broccoli if needed, but make sure to thaw and drain it properly before adding to the pasta.
- Customize the Vegetables: Don’t limit yourself to just broccoli—this dish works well with other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Add Some Spice: If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce.
- Protein Variations: Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu to create a new twist on this dish.
Storing and Reheating
This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake is great for leftovers! You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave or oven until heated through.
If you want to freeze it, make sure the dish has cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and bubbly.
Why This Dish is Great for Meal Prep
Meal prepping can make weeknight dinners a breeze, and this recipe is an excellent option for batch cooking. You can prepare the dish ahead of time, bake it, and store individual portions for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. The creamy sauce holds up well during reheating, keeping the pasta moist and flavorful.
Nutritional Benefits
This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake is not only a tasty comfort food but also offers some nutritional benefits. Broccoli is a nutrient-rich vegetable, packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Chicken provides a lean source of protein, while the creamy sauce adds a satisfying richness to the dish. By balancing the creamy ingredients with wholesome vegetables and lean meat, this meal becomes a well-rounded option for your family.
Perfect for Special Occasions or Weeknight Dinners
This pasta bake is versatile enough to be served at family gatherings, potlucks, or even during the holidays. It’s also simple enough to make on a regular weeknight when you need something comforting without spending too much time in the kitchen. The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with tender chicken and fresh broccoli is a surefire way to please any crowd.
This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect balance of creamy sauce, hearty pasta, and fresh vegetables, offering a comforting and delicious meal that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking for a crowd, this recipe will deliver every time.