Introduction
Chicken and broccoli pasta bake is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and al dente pasta, all smothered in a creamy and cheesy sauce. This hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week ahead. The flavors meld together beautifully in the oven, creating a satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Whether you are a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this chicken and broccoli pasta bake recipe is easy to follow and customizable to suit your taste preferences. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing dish in no time.
In this article, we will walk you through the ingredients you need, the step-by-step instructions to prepare the dish, some variations to try out, helpful tips for success, and finally, address some frequently asked questions to ensure you have all the information you need to make the perfect chicken and broccoli pasta bake.
Ingredients
To make a delicious chicken and broccoli pasta bake, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups of broccoli florets
– 12 oz of pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups of milk
– 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
These simple ingredients come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal that is sure to become a family favorite.
Steps
Here is a step-by-step guide to making a delicious chicken and broccoli pasta bake:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for a minute to make a roux. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, and the cheese sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.
8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Variations
There are endless ways to customize your chicken and broccoli pasta bake to suit your preferences:
– Add diced sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor
– Mix in cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky touch
– Use different types of cheese like cheddar or Gruyère for a unique twist
– Substitute the chicken with turkey or ham for a different protein option
– Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch before baking
Feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients to make this dish your own.
Tips
Here are some tips to ensure your chicken and broccoli pasta bake turns out perfectly:
– Cook the pasta al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven
– Season each component generously to ensure a flavorful dish
– Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and meltability
– Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Conclusion
Chicken and broccoli pasta bake is a versatile and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious meal that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Whether you follow the classic recipe or add your own twist, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the chicken and broccoli pasta bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover chicken and broccoli pasta bake. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What other vegetables can I add to this dish?
A: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to customize the dish to your liking.
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
A delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and al dente pasta, all smothered in a creamy and cheesy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this casserole is easy to make and sure to please everyone.
Ingredients
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
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2 cups broccoli florets
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12 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 cups milk
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons butter
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
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Whisk in flour and cook for a minute to make a roux. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
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Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
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Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
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In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
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Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
