Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake – Rich, Cheesy & Totally Irresistible 🧀🍗🥦
Looking for a baked pasta dish that brings together the best of chicken Alfredo , broccoli casserole , and cheesy comfort in one pan? This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is your new go-to!
Tender baked chicken , vibrant green broccoli florets , and al dente pasta are smothered in a smooth, homemade cheese sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and shredded cheddar — then baked until golden and bubbly. The result? A warm, comforting baked pasta that feels like a hug in every bite.
Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you need something hearty yet simple — this dish delivers big on flavor and satisfaction.
Let’s dive into how to make this creamy dream!
🧀 Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
- Cheesy & comforting : Silky sauce coats every bite.
- Loaded with protein : Chicken and cheese give lasting energy.
- Great for families : A kid-approved comfort classic.
- Make-ahead magic : Prep it the night before and bake in the morning.
- One-dish wonder : Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
For the base:
- 12 oz penne pasta (or fusilli, elbow macaroni, or rigatoni)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts , diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen — thaw if frozen)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing chicken and broccoli)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the creamy cheese sauce:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free option)
- 2 cups whole milk (or low-fat for lighter version)
- 1 cup chicken broth (for depth of flavor)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- Pinch of nutmeg (classic touch, optional)
🔪 Equipment Needed
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spatula
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil or lid
- Measuring tools
- Oven mitts
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat:
- Add olive oil and cook diced chicken breasts until browned and cooked through — about 6–8 minutes .
- Season with salt and pepper as it cooks.
Set aside while preparing the rest.
Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli
In the same pan:
- Add a splash more oil if needed.
- Sauté broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes — just until tender-crisp.
- Set aside with the chicken.
Step 4: Cook the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat:
- Melt butter .
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds .
- Stir in flour to create a roux — cook for 1 minute without browning.
Gradually whisk in:
- Milk
- Chicken broth
Cook gently for 3–4 minutes , stirring constantly until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in:
- Shredded cheese
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let cool slightly before mixing with pasta.
Step 5: Combine Everything
In a large bowl:
- Toss cooked pasta , chicken , and broccoli with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Pour into the prepared baking dish and spread out evenly.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes , or until the top is lightly golden and the edges are bubbling.
For extra crunch, broil the last 2–3 minutes — watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
Step 7: Cool & Serve Warm
Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving — this helps the sauce set and makes slicing easier.
Serve warm and enjoy every creamy, cheesy spoonful!
🍝 Serving Suggestions
- With garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a full meal.
- Try it topped with crunchy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs .
- Pair with a mug of tomato soup or roasted red pepper bisque .
- Stack on a platter with roasted carrots or steamed asparagus .
- Perfect with a glass of white wine or iced tea .
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days .
- Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months . Thaw and reheat when ready.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate overnight — bake just before serving.
- Reheating: Warm in oven at 300°F (150°C) to keep the texture intact.
✅ Expert Tips for Success
- Use leftover shredded chicken to save time — rotisserie chicken works great!
- Don’t overcook the broccoli — it should be bright green and slightly firm.
- Want extra richness? Stir in ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese into the sauce.
- Swap cheddar with Gouda or smoked cheese for deeper flavor.
- Make it vegetarian : Omit chicken and add mushrooms or chickpeas.
🧠 Nutritional Highlights
While indulgent, this dish offers a balanced mix of nutrients:
- Chicken breast provides lean protein and muscle fuel.
- Broccoli delivers fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Cheese and milk offer calcium and healthy fats in moderation.
- Enjoy as part of a hearty dinner — especially with greens or grains.
📝 Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake proves that comfort food can be both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. With its tender chicken, soft broccoli bites, and rich cheese sauce baked to golden perfection, it’s the kind of dish that makes everyone come back for seconds — and thirds!
Whether you’re cooking for your family, packing lunch for work, or bringing something warm and cheesy to a potluck, this recipe brings bold flavor, cozy texture, and pure joy to your table.
So grab your baking dish, toss that pasta in sauce, and get ready to fall in love with every gooey, cheesy bite!
