This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a warm, cheesy hug on a plate! With tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta all mixed in a creamy sauce, it’s comfort food at its finest.
The leftovers (if there are any!) make a tasty lunch the next day. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and this one-pan wonder means less mess in the kitchen. Yay for easy clean-up! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni or penne works great here because their shapes hold the sauce well. If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. I personally love whole wheat pasta for added flavor and nutrition!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add color and crunch. If broccoli isn’t available, feel free to swap in frozen broccoli or another vegetable, like cauliflower or spinach, for a different twist.
Chicken: Chicken breasts are a safe choice, but you could also use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or even turkey if you have it on hand. Just make sure it’s cooked before mixing!
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that classic gooey texture, while grated Parmesan adds a nice sharp flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try using dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for flavor, but powdered garlic or garlic paste can work in a pinch. Just adjust the amount according to your taste!
How Do You Make the Creamy Sauce Without Lumps?
Creating a smooth sauce is key to a tasty baked pasta! Here are some easy steps:
- Start by cooking the garlic in oil until it’s fragrant.
- When you add the flour, stir constantly. This helps to avoid lumps from forming.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and broth. A whisk works better than a spoon here.
- Allow the sauce to simmer while whisking. This thickens the sauce and makes it creamy.
Patience is key! Take your time to mix and whisk well to ensure a lump-free sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
Chicken And Broccoli Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 12 oz (340g) rigatoni or penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts (about 1 lb/450g), cut into bite-sized pieces
For The Sauce:
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme sprigs)
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
For Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll be enjoying your scrumptious Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil.
2. Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Now, toss in the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Once finished, drain both the pasta and broccoli and set aside.
3. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season your chicken with salt and pepper before adding it to the skillet. Cook the chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with the minced garlic. Cook it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Next, sprinkle the flour over the garlic and oil mixture, and begin whisking to form a roux. Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly golden.
5. Adding Liquid to Create the Sauce:
Slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth while continuously whisking to prevent any lumps. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
6. Bringing It All Together:
Stir in the dried thyme and nutmeg (if you’re using it). Taste the sauce and add more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the sauce from heat. In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked pasta, broccoli, chicken, and the creamy sauce. Mix everything together until well coated.
7. Baking Your Pasta Dish:
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Now it’s time to top it off! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the pasta mixture.
8. Final Touches:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to cool slightly.
9. Serving:
Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like. Serve hot and enjoy your cozy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake!
This dish is perfect for a family dinner and is sure to bring smiles around the table. Enjoy! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli in This Recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess water before adding it to the pasta. It’s a great time-saver!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the milk with a plant-based milk, like almond or soy milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives for topping. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without dairy!
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta, sauce, and chicken mixture ahead of time, assemble it in the baking dish, and cover it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to bake it.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can microwave individual portions.