Why Make This Recipe
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a fantastic choice for a hearty meal. It combines comforting pasta, nutritious broccoli, and tender chicken in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This dish is not only filling but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The best part? It’s a one-dish meal, so cleanup is a breeze!
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (rigatoni or penne)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup cream or milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Add the broccoli for the last 3 minutes of cooking time. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, shredded chicken, cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix well to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with the remaining cheese and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake!
How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
Serve the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake hot from the oven. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a crisp salad or garlic bread. For extra color, you might sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top before serving.
How to Store Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
If you have leftovers, let the pasta bake cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- You can adjust the cheese to your liking; try mixing different kinds for added flavor.
- If you like it spicy, add red pepper flakes for a kick.
Variation
If you’re looking to make this dish healthier, you can substitute whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese. You can also use quinoa instead of pasta for a grain-free option.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli works great! Just make sure to chop it into small florets for even cooking.
2. Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.
3. Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (rigatoni or penne)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) Adjust cheese type for preference.
- 1 cup cream or milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Cooking spray or olive oil For greasing the baking dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Add the broccoli for the last 3 minutes of cooking time. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, shredded chicken, cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix well to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with the remaining shredded cheese and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.