Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake is the kind of dish that makes your taste buds dance the cha-cha and your stomach sing a happy tune. Picture tender pasta, juicy chicken, and vibrant green broccoli all swimming in a luscious cheese sauce that’s as comforting as a warm hug on a chilly night. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that takes you back to family dinners where laughter echoed around the table and everyone left with full bellies and big smiles.
Every time I make this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake, I’m transported back to my childhood kitchen, watching my mom whip it up after a long day. The aroma of melting cheese filled the air, mingling with garlic and roasted chicken, creating an irresistible invitation to gather around the dinner table. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday gatherings when you want something hearty and satisfying that doesn’t require a culinary degree. Trust me; once you take your first bite, you’ll be dreaming of this dish long after the leftovers are gone.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cheesy delight comes together quickly for those hectic nights when you need comfort food fast
- The blend of creamy cheese and tender chicken creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds
- It looks gorgeous baked to golden perfection, making it a showstopper for any dinner party
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand!
Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; feel free to adjust based on how many guests you’re hosting.
- Pasta: Any short pasta like penne or rotini will do nicely; they hold onto sauce like best friends at a party.
- Fresh Broccoli: Use about two cups of florets; they add color and crunch to your bake.
- Cheddar Cheese: A couple of cups shredded; the gooier, the better. Aim for sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
- Milk: Whole milk gives a creamier texture to the sauce; trust me, it’s worth it!
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle adds depth; fresh garlic can work too if you’re feeling fancy.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning that brings out all the flavors—don’t skip it!
For the Sauce:
- All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken your cheese sauce into velvety goodness so every bite feels rich.
- Butter: About four tablespoons will add richness that can’t be beaten—it’s comfort food magic!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a large pot and fill it with water. Bring it to a boil—your pasta is about to take a dip!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Once the water is boiling, add in your pasta along with some salt (think sea level here). Cook according to package instructions until al dente—firm but not rock-hard. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet. Sauté them until golden brown and cooked through (about six minutes per side). Remove from heat and let them rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In another saucepan over medium heat, melt three tablespoons of butter. Whisk in flour until smooth (this is called making a roux—fancy!). Gradually pour in milk while whisking continuously until thickened (about five minutes). Stir in shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, broccoli florets (blanched if desired), chicken pieces, and cheese sauce. Stir until everything is beautifully coated in cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Bake It Up
Transfer your mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle additional cheese on top if you’re feeling extra cheesy (and who wouldn’t?). Bake for about twenty-five minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Transfer to plates and dive into this cheesy chicken broccoli pasta bake! Serve with a side salad or some crusty bread for maximum enjoyment!
There you have it! A delightful journey through flavors awaits with each forkful of this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake! Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This cheesy chicken broccoli pasta bake is not just a dish; it’s a hug in a casserole
- With its creamy sauce and melty cheese, it brings comfort to busy weeknights
- You can easily adjust the ingredients to match your family’s tastes, making meal times delightful and fun!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While it’s sizzling away, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Then prepare your creamy sauce, mixing in cheese and broccoli for that ultimate cheesy chicken broccoli pasta bake experience!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Want some heat? Toss in red pepper flakes! You can also experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor kick.
Storing & Reheating
To store, let the cheesy chicken broccoli pasta bake cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. For reheating, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always cook your pasta al dente; it will absorb sauce while baking without becoming mushy
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melt and flavor; pre-packaged versions often contain anti-caking agents
- Let your dish rest for 10 minutes before serving; this helps flavors meld beautifully
I once made this cheesy chicken broccoli pasta bake for a potluck, and let’s just say my friends turned into noodle ninjas fighting over the last scoop! It was a hit that had them asking for seconds—and thirds!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake?
To prepare Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake, you’ll need cooked chicken, fresh broccoli florets, your favorite pasta, cream cheese, shredded cheese (like cheddar), garlic, onion, and seasonings. You can also add breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish. This recipe is versatile; feel free to mix in other vegetables or substitute the chicken with ham or turkey. Gathering all these ingredients will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
How long does it take to cook Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake?
Typically, Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake requires about 15 minutes of preparation time and 25-30 minutes to bake in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before assembling your dish. The baking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the chicken is heated thoroughly. The final result will be a bubbly and cheesy delight that everyone will love.
Can I make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake in advance! Simply assemble the dish without baking it and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in a preheated oven and adjust the cooking time as needed. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
Can I freeze Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake?
Absolutely! Freezing Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake is a fantastic way to enjoy leftovers later. Prepare the dish as usual, then let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly again.
Conclusion for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake :
In conclusion, Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake offers a delightful combination of flavors that brings comfort to any meal. With simple ingredients like chicken, broccoli, and cheese, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. The flexibility of this recipe allows you to customize it according to your preferences while ensuring that it remains a family favorite. Whether you make it fresh or prepare it ahead of time, this pasta bake is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, and fresh broccoli in a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe brings nostalgic flavors to your table. With its golden-brown topping and rich flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone!
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz short pasta (like penne or rotini)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Boil water in a large pot.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; sauté until cooked through (about 6 minutes per side). Remove from heat and slice into bite-sized pieces.
- In a saucepan, melt the remaining butter; whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk while whisking until thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- In a mixing bowl, combine pasta, broccoli, chicken, and cheese sauce; mix well.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with additional cheddar if desired, and bake for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
