Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake

Looking for a dish that will bring your family running to the table with smiles on their faces? Look no further than this delightful Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake. This recipe has been a game-changer in my household, especially during those hectic weeks when getting a homemade meal on the table feels like a Herculean task. Combining tender chicken, wholesome broccoli, al dente pasta, and a blanket of gooey cheese, this casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that will have your loved ones coming back for seconds.

I first stumbled upon this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake recipe when I was at my wits’ end trying to juggle everyone’s schedules while still serving up a meal that would satisfy all tastes. The magic happened when I realized that I could whip up a dish that incorporated all the elements of comfort food into one glorious bake. Since then, this casserole has become a staple in our weekly meal rotation, and for good reason. The creamy sauce, the perfectly cooked broccoli, the savory chicken, and the irresistible cheese topping make this dish a winner every time. Trust me, once you try this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Quick Benefits

• Convenient Meal Prep: Ideal for busy weeks when you need a satisfying dinner without the hassle of making multiple dishes.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable with different vegetables and pasta shapes to suit your preferences and what’s in your pantry.
• Family-Friendly Crowd Pleaser: A hit with both kids and adults, making it a go-to dish for family gatherings and potlucks.
• Long Lasting and Freezer-Friendly: Stays fresh for up to five days in the fridge and freezes well for up to three months, perfect for meal planning and batch cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe

• Family-Friendly Comfort Food: Perfect for busy weeks when you need a crowd-pleasing meal that combines all the favorites – chicken, pasta, cheese, and vegetables – in one dish.
• Saves Time and Effort: Ideal for meal prep as it can be made ahead and enjoyed for days, saving you the hassle of cooking daily.
• Crowd Favorite Potluck Dish: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it a hit at potlucks and gatherings.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable by switching up vegetables or pasta shapes, catering to different tastes and preferences.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Can be stored in the fridge for up to five days or frozen for up to three months, making it a convenient option for busy days.
• Balanced Meal: Offers a complete meal in one dish, but pairs well with garlic bread and salad to create a well-rounded and satisfying dinner.
• Improved Flavor Over Time: Tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together, ensuring a delicious meal every time.
• Picky Eater Approved: Sneaks in vegetables for picky eaters while being flavorful and comforting for those who appreciate a hearty and delicious dish.

Ingredients for Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake

• 2 large heads of fresh broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup half-and-half cream
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

How to Make Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake

Step 1: Prep the oven and dish

Preheat oven to 400°F. Generously coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Blanch the broccoli

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook broccoli florets for 2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the pasta

Cook penne pasta in the same pot according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside, being careful not to overcook.

Step 4: Brown the chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook cubed chicken for 6-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, stirring occasionally. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 5: Make the sauce base

Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cook for 3-4 minutes until onion is softened and fragrant.

Step 6: Build the cream sauce

Sprinkle flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth until it reaches a gentle boil.

Step 7: Finish the sauce

After the sauce thickens slightly, add half-and-half, cooked chicken, and blanched broccoli. Heat everything for 2-3 minutes.

Step 8: Assemble and bake

Place the chicken and broccoli mixture in the baking dish. Add cooked pasta and gently combine. Sprinkle cheeses evenly on top.

Step 9: Bake until bubbly

Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted, golden brown, and edges are bubbling. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve prepared the cheesy chicken broccoli pasta bake, you can store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors actually meld together even better over time, so it often tastes even more delicious the next day. You can simply cover the baking dish with foil or transfer individual portions to airtight containers before refrigerating. To reheat, you can warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire dish covered in a 350-degree oven until heated through.

If you want to store the cheesy chicken broccoli pasta bake for a longer period, it freezes well for up to three months. Make sure to cool the dish completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bags. When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen casserole, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as usual. This dish is perfect for meal prepping, busy weeknights, or whenever you need a comforting and satisfying meal that’s ready to go.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer to use a different protein other than chicken, you can swap it out for cooked ground turkey, beef, or even vegetarian options like tofu or chickpeas. This will give the dish a different flavor profile while still keeping it hearty and satisfying.

For a gluten-free version of this cheesy chicken broccoli pasta bake, you can substitute the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta options such as brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta. Make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the gluten-free pasta you choose to ensure it’s cooked to al dente perfection. Additionally, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to thicken the sauce without compromising on the creamy texture.

Experimenting with different cheeses can also add a unique twist to this dish. Consider using a combination of cheddar, Gouda, or fontina alongside or instead of the Parmesan and mozzarella. This can elevate the flavor profile and bring a new dimension of cheesiness to the casserole.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cheesy chicken and broccoli pasta bake with a side of garlic bread to soak up all the creamy sauce and make it a truly indulgent meal. You can also pair it with a simple green salad dressed with zesty Italian dressing to add a fresh contrast to the rich casserole. For a touch of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking to add a subtle kick without overpowering the dish. The versatility of this bake allows you to customize it by adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or different pasta shapes to suit your taste preferences and ingredient availability.

To elevate the presentation, transfer individual portions of the cheesy chicken and broccoli pasta bake into ramekins before serving. Top each portion with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, then broil briefly to create a golden, bubbly crust. This not only adds a gourmet touch but also ensures that each serving has a perfect balance of cheesy goodness. Whether enjoyed straight from the baking dish for a cozy family dinner or elegantly plated for a special occasion, this comforting casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

FAQs for Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh for this recipe?

Fresh broccoli is recommended for this recipe, as frozen broccoli may become mushy when baked. If you prefer to use frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain it well before incorporating it into the dish.

Can I make this dish in advance and bake it later?

Yes, you can assemble the cheesy chicken and broccoli pasta bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.

Is it necessary to blanch the broccoli before adding it to the casserole?

Blanching the broccoli before adding it to the casserole is recommended to ensure it is tender yet retains some texture after baking. Skipping this step may result in crunchy or undercooked broccoli in the final dish.

Can I substitute the type of cheese used in this recipe?

While Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses are commonly used in this dish for their melting properties and flavor, you can experiment with different cheeses based on your preferences. Cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend of cheeses can be used as substitutions or additions to customize the flavor profile of the casserole.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake has truly become a hero dish in my household, and I hope it becomes a staple in yours too. Its versatility allows for personal touches, making it your own signature comfort food creation. Remember to blanch the broccoli for that perfect texture and feel free to experiment with different veggies and pasta shapes to suit your family’s preferences.

So whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or impressing a crowd at a potluck, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake is sure to be a hit. Embrace the warmth and comfort it brings, and enjoy the smiles and empty plates that will surely follow. Cheers to many more delicious moments shared over this incredible casserole!

Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake

Creamy and comforting Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake – a crowd-pleasing casserole that’s a perfect blend of comfort food favorites!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time25 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time45 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings8 Servings (1 large casserole)

Ingredients

• 2 large heads of fresh broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup half-and-half cream
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Prep the oven and dish: Preheat oven to 400°F. Generously coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
2. Blanch the broccoli: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook broccoli florets for 2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the pasta: Cook penne pasta in the same pot according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside, being careful not to overcook.
4. Brown the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook cubed chicken for 6-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, stirring occasionally. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. Make the sauce base: Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cook for 3-4 minutes until onion is softened and fragrant.
6. Build the cream sauce: Sprinkle flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth until it reaches a gentle boil.
7. Finish the sauce: After the sauce thickens slightly, add half-and-half, cooked chicken, and blanched broccoli. Heat everything for 2-3 minutes.
8. Assemble and bake: Place the chicken and broccoli mixture in the baking dish. Add cooked pasta and gently combine. Sprinkle cheeses evenly on top.
9. Bake until bubbly: Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted, golden brown, and edges are bubbling. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.