Description
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
2 cups broccoli florets
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Cook the pasta and broccoli:
Boil the penne in salted water according to package directions. Add broccoli florets in the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk, stirring until thickened.
Season and add cheese:
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add 2 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Assemble the bake:
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, broccoli, shredded chicken, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
Bake to perfection:
Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese and remaining cheddar cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Garnish and serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect bake every time. First, ensure your chicken is pre-cooked and shredded. While the pasta boils, steam the broccoli separately if you prefer it less tender than the pasta-boil method. For the sauce, the key is to cook the flour-butter roux for a full minute to remove the raw taste before gradually adding cold milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. When combining, use a bowl large enough to mix everything thoroughly so every piece is coated in cheese sauce. Before baking, let the assembled dish sit for 5 minutes so the pasta absorbs some sauce, preventing a runny result.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a crunchier texture contrast, serve with garlic bread or breadsticks. It also makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day—simply reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk to refresh the sauce.
How-to Summary
In summary, this dish involves cooking pasta and broccoli, making a creamy cheese sauce from a roux, milk, and seasonings, then combining everything with shredded chicken. The mixture is topped with more cheese and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s a straightforward process of boil, make sauce, combine, and bake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, assemble the bake completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Rigatoni, fusilli, or shells are excellent alternatives that hold sauce well.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Omit the chicken and add more broccoli, or incorporate other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.
My sauce seems too thick. What should I do? Thin it out by whisking in a little more milk, 1/4 cup at a time, until you reach the desired consistency before combining with the pasta.
Can I freeze the baked pasta? Yes, it freezes well. Cool completely, portion, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the broccoli: Adding it to the pasta pot too early will make it mushy. Stick to the last 2 minutes.
- Adding cheese to a boiling sauce: Remove the sauce from heat before stirring in the shredded cheese to prevent a grainy texture.
- Using pre-shredded cheese exclusively: While convenient, it contains anti-caking agents. For a smoother sauce, shred block cheese yourself for at least half of the amount.
- Not seasoning the pasta water: Salting the boiling water is your first chance to build flavor in the pasta itself.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is the epitome of comforting, family-friendly cuisine. It masterfully combines simple ingredients into a creamy, satisfying, and visually appealing one-dish meal. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and customize the dish to your liking. It’s a reliable recipe that promises delicious results, whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering. Enjoy the process and the cheesy, golden-brown outcome!