Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
A family favorite, this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese into a delightful one-dish meal, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and diced
Vegetables and Toppings
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 1 tablespoon parsley (for garnish)
Cheese and Cream Mixture
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, diced chicken, steamed broccoli, and shredded cheese.
- In a separate bowl, combine heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the pasta and chicken mixture, stirring to coat evenly.
- Transfer everything to a greased baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. For added flavor, season the chicken with herbs like Italian seasoning or thyme before baking. You can substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.