Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a comforting, family-friendly dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need something warm and satisfying. This bake combines tender pieces of chicken, crisp broccoli florets, and pasta all tossed in a creamy, cheesy sauce, then baked to golden perfection. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a well-balanced meal in one dish, with the richness of the cheese and the freshness of the broccoli making every bite delightful. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and reheat, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
- Cook the broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Drain and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cheese: Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Assemble the bake: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and toss to coat everything evenly. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Add the topping (optional): In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil, then sprinkle over the top of the pasta bake for a crispy topping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling.
- Serve: Allow the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm with a side salad or some crusty bread.
This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is sure to become a favorite, offering a perfect combination of flavors and textures in a dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
