Irresistible Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe

Name: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced); 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen); 8 oz penne or fusilli pasta; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: July 13, 2025

by Molly white

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake is incredibly simple to prepare, ensuring stress-free cooking
Its rich cheese flavor pairs beautifully with chicken and broccoli for a delicious meal
The enticing colors and bubbling cheese create an eye-catching presentation for any occasion
Perfect as leftovers too, making it great for meal prep throughout the week

I distinctly remember my niece’s eyes widening when she took her first bite—pure bliss!

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; feel free to adjust based on your hungry crowd.
Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen, they add a pop of color and nutrition—plus they pair perfectly with cheese!
Pasta (Penne or Fusilli): These shapes hold sauce nicely; use whole wheat for a healthier option.
Shredded Cheese (Cheddar and Mozzarella): A blend brings out the best flavors; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!
Heavy Cream: This makes everything creamy and dreamy; you can substitute with half-and-half if needed.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for that extra flavor kick—fresh garlic works too if you’re feeling fancy.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevates the entire dish—your secret weapon!
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning each layer to perfection.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your pasta bake cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden top.

Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a pot and cook your pasta until just al dente. Drain it while saving some pasta water—this helps later if you need more sauce.

Sauté Chicken & Broccoli: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook diced chicken until no longer pink. Add broccoli florets during the last few minutes so they stay bright and vibrant.

Create Cheese Sauce: In another saucepan, combine heavy cream with garlic powder and Italian seasoning over low heat. Gradually stir in shredded cheeses until melted and creamy.

Combine Everything Together: Toss cooked pasta with chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. If it seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired creaminess.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish and sprinkle more cheese on top. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Now you’ve created a masterpiece that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor!

And there you have it—a Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake that’s sure to impress! Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself because self-love is important too! Each bite bursts with comforting flavors that will make everyone want to gather around your table again and again. spicy buffalo chicken bombs Enjoy!

You Must Know

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake is a delightful blend of flavors and textures
This dish not only satisfies hunger but also warms the soul, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
The aroma alone is enough to make anyone’s mouth water

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta until al dente; this prevents mushiness later. While that’s boiling, sauté the chicken until golden brown, then add garlic and broccoli for an aromatic punch before mixing everything together.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick, and experiment with different cheese blends to find your favorite.

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, ensuring the cheese melts beautifully again.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To ensure your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake comes out perfectly, remember that timing is key; cook each component just right
Avoid overcooking broccoli as it can turn mushy, ruining texture
Always taste as you go; adjustments can elevate flavors significantly

Cooking this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake has become a family tradition. I still recall the first time I made it—my guests couldn’t stop raving about how cheesy and comforting it was! For more inspiration, check out this Thick And Chewy Caramel Coconut Cookies recipe.