Irresistible Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of a bubbling Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake wafting through your kitchen. Picture perfectly cooked pasta, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli swimming in a creamy, cheesy sauce that just begs to be devoured. As you pull this beauty from the oven, the cheese glistens like a golden treasure, inviting everyone to dig in. For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.

This dish holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and plates were piled high. Perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests at dinner parties, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake promises an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

I’ll never forget the time I made this dish for my friends during a game night; their faces lit up as they took their first bites!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.

• Pasta: Any short pasta works well; I love using penne for its ability to hold onto the sauce.

• Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets for that perfect crunch and flavor contrast.

• Shredded Cheese: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar gives a beautiful meltiness and rich flavor.

• Creamy Sauce Ingredients: Heavy cream and cream cheese create a luscious base; don’t skimp here!

• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper will elevate the dish—season like you mean it!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions while preparing other components.

In another pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until they’re golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes—then remove from heat.

In the same pan used for chicken, add chopped broccoli. Sauté until bright green and slightly tender—about 3-4 minutes—then set aside alongside the chicken.

In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and cream cheese until smooth, then add garlic powder and onion powder. Pour this heavenly mixture over your chicken and broccoli; stir gently until everything is coated in creamy goodness.

Combine cooked pasta into the chicken-broccoli mixture along with half of the shredded cheese. Transfer everything into a greased baking dish and top with remaining cheese. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving; trust me—it’s hard not to burn your tongue on that ooey-gooey goodness! Enjoy every cheesy bite of your masterpiece!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavor, then cook the pasta while preparing the rich cheese sauce. This sequence maximizes efficiency and ensures every bite bursts with goodness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add sun-dried tomatoes for a flavorful twist. Experimenting with spices can enhance flavors and make each bake uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in intervals until hot.

Cooking this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake brought back memories of family gatherings where everyone would gather around the table, sharing laughter and second helpings.

FAQ

What type of pasta works best for this bake?

Penne or rotini are great choices because they hold onto the sauce well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it beforehand and refrigerate until ready to bake.

How can I make it healthier?

Consider using whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor.