Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Bake

Craving a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, yet simple enough for a busy weeknight? Look no further than this incredibly delicious Baked Chicken and Broccoli Pasta casserole. This recipe takes classic ingredients – tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce – and transforms them into an irresistible baked pasta dish that your entire family will absolutely adore. It’s the perfect solution for those evenings when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen, coming together in under an hour from start to finish.

This chicken broccoli pasta bake is a true crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The secret lies in the luscious, cheesy sauce that perfectly coats every piece of pasta and chicken, making the broccoli a delightful, often unnoticed, addition for kids. Its hearty nature and rich taste ensure there will be no leftovers, making it a staple in your dinner rotation.

If you’re on the hunt for more quick and delightful pasta recipes to brighten up your weekly meal plan, be sure to explore my Creamy Chicken Tortellini Pasta or my Simple Pesto Tomato Pasta. Both are fantastic options that are incredibly easy to prepare and equally satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Prepare to fall in love with this baked chicken and broccoli pasta casserole for multiple reasons. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that simplifies your life and delights your taste buds.

• Effortless Weeknight Dinner: This recipe is designed for ease. Utilizing common pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can whip up this cheesy chicken and broccoli pasta casserole and have it on the table in less than an hour. It’s ideal for those hectic weeknights when time is short, but you still want a wholesome, homemade meal. It even works wonderfully as a quick, satisfying lunch on a relaxed weekend.

• Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The heart of this dish is its incredibly rich and creamy cheese sauce. Infused with aromatic seasonings and a blend of cheeses, every bite is a burst of savory goodness. The sauce clings beautifully to the pasta and chicken, delivering a depth of flavor that will have you reaching for seconds and might even tempt you to lick the plate clean!

• A Kid-Friendly Favorite: It’s no secret that cheese is a universal language, especially for children. The generous amount of melted mozzarella and cream cheese in this casserole cleverly masks the broccoli, making it an enjoyable vegetable experience for even the most discerning young palates. Watch as your kids devour this cheesy delight without a single complaint!

Essential Ingredients for Your Oven-Baked Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Creating this magnificent baked pasta dish starts with selecting high-quality, fresh ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to bring this comforting casserole to life:

• Pasta: The foundation of any great pasta bake. Choose a short, sturdy pasta shape that can hold up to the creamy sauce and baking process. Penne, rotini, or ziti are excellent choices, but feel free to pick your family’s favorite. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used for dietary considerations.
• Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are key for vibrant color and a healthy crunch. Cut them into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.
• Chicken Tenders: These cook quickly and stay wonderfully tender. Cut them into uniform cubes for even cooking. If chicken tenders aren’t available, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs can be used – just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces.
• Seasoning: A blend of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper forms the aromatic backbone of this dish. These spices enhance both the chicken and the creamy sauce.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and greasing the baking dish, adding a subtle richness. Any neutral cooking oil will work.
• Chicken Broth: Provides a savory base for the sauce. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to better control the overall saltiness of the dish.
• Half and Half: This gives the sauce its rich, luxurious creaminess. If you don’t have half and half, you can easily create it by mixing equal parts of whole milk and heavy cream.
• Cream Cheese: Cut into cubes, cream cheese melts into the sauce, adding tanginess and a velvety texture that makes the casserole truly irresistible.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is used both within the sauce and as a golden, bubbly topping. Divided into two portions, it ensures cheesy goodness throughout and a beautiful crust on top.
• Red Chili Flakes (Optional): For a touch of heat and visual appeal. Skip this if serving to children or those sensitive to spice.
• Shredded Parmesan Cheese (Optional): A sprinkle of Parmesan at the end adds an extra layer of salty, nutty flavor, perfect for garnish.

Crafting Your Baked Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide

Get ready to create a masterpiece that’s both simple and sensationally delicious. Follow these easy steps to bring your creamy chicken and broccoli pasta casserole to life:

• Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little oil or cooking spray. Set it aside, ready for assembly.
• Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Approximately 2 minutes before the pasta is fully cooked, add the fresh broccoli florets to the boiling water. This ensures the broccoli is tender-crisp, not mushy. Drain the pasta and broccoli together, then set them aside.

• Step 3: Season and Cook the Chicken. While the pasta cooks, season your cubed chicken pieces generously with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until it’s lightly browned and mostly cooked through. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as it will continue cooking in the oven.

• Step 4: Create the Irresistible Sauce. To the pot with the cooked chicken, stir in the chicken broth, half and half, and the cubed cream cheese. Continue to cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Now, add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and stir until it melts and the sauce begins to thicken slightly.

• Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce. Remove the pot from the heat. Gently fold in the cooked pasta and broccoli with the creamy chicken sauce. Mix everything carefully until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the rich, cheesy goodness.

• Step 6: Bake to Perfection. Transfer the entire pasta mixture into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly spread the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.

• Step 7: Garnish and Serve. Once baked to your liking, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. If desired, garnish with a sprinkle of red chili flakes and fresh shredded Parmesan cheese. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving warm, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to set slightly.

Expert Tips and Notes for the Perfect Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Achieving a truly exceptional baked chicken and broccoli pasta casserole is easy with these helpful tips and tricks:

• Pasta Perfection: While any small-shaped pasta works, consider penne, rotini, or orecchiette for best results as they capture the creamy sauce wonderfully. If you’re mindful of dietary needs, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta varieties are excellent alternatives that don’t compromise on flavor or texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: When cooking pasta, always use a generously sized pot with ample water. This prevents the pasta from sticking together and allows it to cook evenly, resulting in perfectly al dente noodles.
• Stir Immediately: As soon as you add the pasta to boiling water, give it a good stir. This crucial step helps prevent the noodles from clumping together and ensures each piece cooks individually.
• Cream Cheese Matters: For the ultimate creamy sauce, always opt for full-fat block cream cheese. Avoid using spreadable cream cheese from a tub, as it often has a different consistency and may not melt as smoothly or provide the same richness.
• Check Chicken Doneness: While the chicken will continue to cook in the oven, ensuring it’s mostly cooked through before baking is important. For accuracy, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 160°F (71°C) when ready to be combined with the sauce. It will reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) during the baking process.
• Enhance Your Flavors: Don’t be shy with seasonings. Taste your sauce before adding the pasta and adjust salt and pepper as needed. A pinch of nutmeg can also add a delightful warmth to cheese sauces.
• Rest Before Serving: After removing the casserole from the oven, let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and prevents it from being too runny when served, ensuring all that creamy goodness stays with your pasta.

Equipment You’ll Need

Having the right tools makes cooking this creamy baked pasta a breeze. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for cooking chicken and sauce
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Whisk and mixing spoons
• Aluminum foil
• Meat thermometer (optional, but recommended)

Serving Suggestions for Baked Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

This baked chicken and broccoli pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides to round out your dinner experience:

• Fresh Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls: The classic pairing! The crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce. Try my Roasted Garlic Bread or Hawaiian Dinner Rolls.
• Simple Side Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• Steamed Green Beans: For an extra dose of vegetables, quick-steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon are a great choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Casserole

Here are answers to some common questions you might have when preparing this delicious baked chicken and broccoli pasta:

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella provides a classic melt, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Sharp cheddar, Colby, Monterey Jack, or a marble blend would all be excellent choices. If you’re looking to add a little heat, consider using pepper jack cheese.

How do I store leftover pasta bake?

Leftover baked chicken and broccoli pasta stores wonderfully. Transfer any uneaten portion into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings until warmed through, or place the entire dish (covered with foil) in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until hot.

Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, this casserole is very versatile! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables you have on hand. Frozen corn, peas, thinly sliced carrots, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms are all fantastic additions. For spinach, add it to the sauce at the very end, just before combining with pasta, allowing it to wilt. However, avoid watery vegetables like zucchini or squash, as they can make the casserole soggy.

Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Certainly! Instead of chicken tenders, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work equally well. The key is to cut the chicken into similar-sized, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and integrate seamlessly into the pasta dish. Adjust cooking time slightly if using larger pieces.

Do you cook chicken before putting it in a casserole?

For most casserole dishes involving chicken, including this one, it’s best to cook the chicken at least partially before adding it to the bake. This ensures it’s cooked through and adds flavor through browning. You can slightly undercook it by a minute or so, as it will finish cooking in the oven, helping to prevent dry chicken.

What is a good side dish for chicken casserole?

A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a good choice to cut through the richness of the casserole. Warm, crusty garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are also fantastic for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce.

Can I prep chicken pasta bake ahead of time?

Yes, this casserole is an excellent make-ahead meal! Follow all the directions up until the point of baking. Once assembled in the baking dish, cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to one day. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes beforehand to come to room temperature, then bake as directed, potentially adding a few extra minutes to the initial covered baking time if still very cold.

Creative Variations for Your Chicken Pasta Casserole

One of the best things about this baked chicken and broccoli pasta is how adaptable it is. Don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste or what you have available:

• Vegetable Medley: Beyond broccoli, introduce other favorite vegetables. Consider adding frozen corn, green peas, diced carrots, or sautéed fresh mushrooms for added texture and nutrients. For a touch of greens, fresh spinach or kale can be wilted into the sauce just before combining with the pasta. Remember to avoid vegetables that release too much water, like zucchini or squash, which can make the casserole watery.
• Protein Power-Up: While chicken is fantastic, feel free to switch up the protein. Cooked turkey breast, diced ham, or even pre-cooked shrimp (added at the very end to prevent overcooking) can offer a delightful twist. For a vegetarian option, consider adding white beans or extra vegetables and a hearty mushroom broth.
• Cheese Enthusiast’s Dream: The cheese possibilities are endless! Replace or combine mozzarella with other melting cheeses like sharp cheddar, white cheddar, shredded gouda, Colby Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top before serving also adds a wonderful salty tang.

More Delightful Pasta Recipes to Explore

If you’re a pasta lover, you’re in for a treat! Here are some other incredible pasta recipes to add to your culinary repertoire:

• Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Spaghetti
• Creamy Broccoli Mac N’ Cheese
• Caprese Pasta Salad
• Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
• Chicken Tetrazzini

I genuinely hope you find as much joy in making and savoring this incredible Baked Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole recipe as I do. It’s a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t forget to share your experience!

If you loved this recipe, please consider leaving a star rating and a comment below to let me know! Share your delicious recreations with me on INSTAGRAM using my hashtag so I can see your culinary masterpieces! For more mouth-watering recipes and updates, be sure to follow Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST. Happy cooking!