broccoli chicken pasta bake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best broccoli chicken pasta bake recipe

I’ve been making this broccoli chicken pasta bake recipe for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. The dish is a classic comfort food that never fails to satisfy.

I love how the tender chicken and crunchy broccoli are perfectly balanced by the creamy pasta sauce. It’s a recipe that’s easy to make and customize to your taste.

My kids adore it, and it’s often requested for school lunches or special occasions. I’ve even served it at family gatherings and potlucks, where it’s always been a crowd-pleaser.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can add in your favorite vegetables, cheese, or herbs to make it your own. I’ve tried various combinations, but my go-to is still the classic broccoli chicken pasta bake with some added garlic and lemon zest.

It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays when you want something comforting without too much fuss.

Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake

4.6 from 1003 votes

A comforting and flavorful pasta bake featuring tender chicken, broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

8 oz pasta
1 lb chicken breast
2 cups broccoli florets
1 onion
2 cloves garlic
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3Drain and set aside.
4Cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
5Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
6Heat a skillet over medium heat.
7Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
8Remove from skillet and set aside.
9In the same skillet, add onion and garlic.
10Sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
11Add broccoli florets to the skillet.
12Cook for 3-4 minutes until broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
13Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth.
14Stir well to combine.
15Bring to a simmer and let it reduce slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
16Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
17Add dried oregano and mix well.
18In a large baking dish, combine cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli mixture.
19Stir until well combined.
20Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes.
21Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
22Let the pasta bake rest for a few minutes before serving.
23Enjoy your Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake.

🔧Equipment

Baking dish
Large pot
Skillet

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 1000mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: Add a layer of mozzarella cheese on top before baking for an extra cheesy crust. You can also use frozen broccoli florets for convenience.

This broccoli chicken pasta bake recipe is a staple in our household – it’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. My family loves it when I serve it with some crusty bread or a side salad.

The best part is that you can customize it however you like, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. This recipe is also great for meal prep – simply assemble the casserole on Sunday evening and refrigerate overnight before baking on Monday morning.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake

Q1: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using penne or macaroni for this recipe as they hold onto the sauce well.

Q2: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if you prefer – just thaw it first and pat dry with paper towels before adding to the recipe.

Q3: How long does this recipe take to prepare?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish.

Q4: Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, but don’t bake until the day of serving.

Q5: What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

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