Description
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
Looking for a wholesome family dinner? This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is the perfect answer! Tender pieces of chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and a creamy, cheesy sauce come together to make a hearty meal that’s both comforting and delicious. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily become a weeknight favorite!
2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
12 oz pasta (rotini or fusilli)
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta and steam broccoli.
3. Make a cheese sauce, then combine with chicken, broccoli, and pasta.
4. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Kcal: 450 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. 2. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets directly to the pasta pot to blanch them. Drain both together. 3. For the sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in the garlic powder, half of the cheddar cheese, and all of the Parmesan until melted. Season with salt and pepper. 4. In a large bowl, combine the drained pasta and broccoli, cooked chicken, and cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated. 5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese. 6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
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 touch of freshness, serve with garlic bread or crusty rolls. It also makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day.
How-to Summary
To make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake: cook pasta, blanching broccoli in the same pot. Make a simple cheese sauce from a butter-flour roux, milk, and cheeses. Combine sauce with pasta, broccoli, and cooked chicken in a baking dish. Top with more cheese and bake at 375°F until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, but thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid a watery bake. Add it directly to the mixture without blanching.
How can I make this dish ahead of time? Assemble the bake completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What’s the best pasta to use? Short, sturdy shapes like rotini, penne, or fusilli work best as they hold the sauce well.
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Diced ham, cooked turkey, or even canned tuna (drained) are great substitutes for the chicken.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Cook it only to al dente, as it will soften further in the oven.
- A watery sauce: Ensure your roux cooks for a full minute before adding milk, and whisk constantly until properly thickened.
- Skipping the broccoli blanching: Adding raw broccoli results in undercooked, crunchy florets. Blanching ensures they become perfectly tender.
- Using pre-shredded bagged cheese: These cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. For a smoother sauce, shred cheese from a block.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is the epitome of comfort food, offering a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and creamy, cheesy carbs. Its straightforward method and forgiving nature make it an ideal recipe for both busy weeknights and casual gatherings. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and create a delicious, satisfying meal that your whole family will love. Enjoy the simplicity and delicious results of this classic bake.