Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake

Introduction

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and al dente pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This baked casserole is a crowd-pleaser, offering a rich, flavorful blend of creamy cheese and savory chicken. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. The melted cheese on top forms a golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender ingredients underneath, making each bite irresistible.

I remember the first time I made this for a family dinner. The kitchen smelled amazing as the dish baked, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in. What’s great about this recipe is how customizable it is—you can use whatever cheese you love, from sharp cheddar to creamy mozzarella, or add in extra vegetables to make it your own. The creamy sauce is rich but not overwhelming, allowing the chicken and broccoli to shine in every bite.

This dish is surprisingly simple to make, too. With just a few basic ingredients and one casserole dish, you can have a delicious, filling meal that will feed the whole family. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or prepping for leftovers during a busy week, Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Perfect for:

Family dinners
Weeknight meals
Potlucks
Comfort food lovers
Cheese enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake is a must-try:

Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of melted cheese and creamy sauce creates a deliciously comforting dish.
Packed with Protein: Chicken adds a rich source of protein, making the dish hearty and filling.
Healthy Veggie Boost: Broccoli adds a healthy, crunchy element that balances the richness of the cheese and sauce.
One-Pot Wonder: With everything baked together in one dish, this recipe is easy to make and clean up.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this cheesy, flavorful pasta bake.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake:

For the Casserole:

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 pound (16 oz) pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for added crunch)
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

Ingredient Highlights

Chicken: The star protein in this dish, adding heartiness and a savory flavor.
Broccoli: A nutritious veggie that brings color, texture, and vitamins to the dish.
Cheddar and Mozzarella: These cheeses provide a perfect balance of sharpness and meltiness.
Heavy Cream and Chicken Broth: Together, they form the creamy sauce that coats the pasta and chicken.
Pasta: The foundation of the dish, holding all the flavors together in every bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake:

Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli:

Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

Make the Roux: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
Add the Liquids: Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth until smooth. Continue to cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Season the Sauce: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and stir until combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Assemble the Casserole:

Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and the creamy sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer to a Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Top and Bake:

Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Optional Crunchy Topping: If using, sprinkle the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese over the top for added texture and flavor.
Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden, and the sauce is bubbling.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice into portions and enjoy!

How to Serve

With a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
With Garlic Bread: Pair with a warm, crispy garlic bread to soak up any extra cheesy sauce.
For Meal Prep: Portion into containers and refrigerate for an easy lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Topped with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added freshness and color.

Additional Tips

Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
To lighten up the dish, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream.
Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
You can also use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.

Recipe Variations

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Alfredo Bake: Swap the cream and broth for Alfredo sauce.
Spicy Cheesy Chicken Bake: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for heat.
Cheesy Chicken Bacon Bake: Add cooked bacon pieces (optional).
Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Bake: Incorporate fresh spinach for a green boost.
Vegetarian Broccoli Pasta Bake: Omit the chicken and use extra broccoli for a vegetarian version.
Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Bake: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Cauliflower Chicken Bake: Swap out broccoli for cauliflower florets for a different veggie option.
Cheesy Chicken Zucchini Bake: Add shredded zucchini to the mix for extra veggies.
Buffalo Cheesy Chicken Bake: Add buffalo sauce for a tangy twist.
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pesto Bake: Stir in some basil pesto for added flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Special Equipment

Large saucepan for the sauce
9×13-inch baking dish
Medium pot for cooking pasta
Cheese grater for shredding the cheeses

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, just thaw it before using.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, any short pasta will work well.
Can I add other veggies? Yes, feel free to mix in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
Can I make this dairy-free? Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk to make it dairy-free.

Conclusion

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with savory flavors. This dish brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, fresh broccoli, and gooey cheese in a bake that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.

Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this easy-to-make dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or sharing it with loved ones at a gathering, this cheesy pasta bake will never disappoint!

I’d love to see how your Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy every cheesy bite!