Introduction: Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and pasta, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. This baked casserole is easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering. The combination of flavors and textures—creamy sauce, juicy chicken, crunchy broccoli, and baked cheese—creates a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
Chicken Breast or Thighs: 2 large, boneless and skinless (about 300-400g), diced
Pasta: 250g (penne, fusilli, or rotini work well)
Broccoli: 1 head, cut into florets
Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml)
Milk: 1 cup (240ml)
Cheddar Cheese: 1 1/2 cups (grated)
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup (grated)
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
Flour: 2 tbsp (for thickening)
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp (optional)
Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (optional, for topping)
Butter: 1 tbsp (optional, for greasing)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Prepare the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the onion and garlic for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, just to slightly soften them. Remove from heat.
Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns slightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the grated cheddar and Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Dish: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, sautéed broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
Bake: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. If desired, sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs for a crispy crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve: Let the pasta bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Description:
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake is a rich and satisfying casserole that blends tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta, all coated in a velvety cheese sauce. The cheesy topping, when baked, creates a deliciously golden crust while the inside remains creamy and flavorful. It’s a one-pan meal that’s not only comforting but also packed with protein and vegetables. This dish is perfect for those who love indulgent pasta bakes with a bit of a healthy twist from the broccoli.
Tips:
Chicken Substitution: You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option, or swap the chicken for turkey if preferred.
Vegetable Add-ins: Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Pasta Tip: Use a pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as penne, fusilli, or rotini.
Cheese Variety: Feel free to use a mix of cheeses for added depth, such as mozzarella, gouda, or Gruyère.
Make-Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 1 day before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s chilled.
Variations:
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based chicken, dairy-free cream, and non-dairy cheeses for a vegan-friendly take on this pasta bake.
Bacon Addition: Add crispy bacon bits or pancetta for extra flavor and a bit of crunch.
Correction:
Avoid Overcooking the Broccoli: Since the broccoli will be baked further in the oven, avoid overcooking it in the skillet. It should still have a bit of a crunch.
Sauce Thickness: If the sauce becomes too thick after simmering, you can thin it with a little more milk or broth to achieve the desired consistency.
Enjoy:
Once baked to golden perfection, serve your creamy broccoli and chicken pasta bake with a side salad or garlic bread. This dish is sure to become a family favorite, combining comfort, flavor, and nutrition in every bite!
