Description
This cozy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and gooey cheese in a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection for a comforting and flavorful meal that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups dry small shaped pasta
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper, to taste
Fresh Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 lb chicken tenders, cut into bite size pieces
Dairy & Oils
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 4 oz cream cheese, cut into cubes
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 2 Tbsp shredded Parmesan cheese
Liquids
- ¾ – 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions but one minute less than al dente. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain both and set aside.
- Prepare Chicken: In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until no longer pink on the outside, about 3-5 minutes.
- Make Sauce: Add chicken broth to the pan and bring to a simmer. Add cream cheese cubes and stir until partially melted and incorporated. Then stir in ¾ cup mozzarella cheese until melted and sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine and Transfer: Turn off heat and gently fold in cooked pasta and broccoli until well combined. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake Covered: Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 15 minutes to meld flavors and heat through.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove foil and top with remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for about 3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to settle.
Notes
- You can use any small shaped pasta you prefer; whole wheat pasta adds more nutrients.
- Chicken thighs, breasts, or tenders all work well, with thighs providing the most tender and flavorful option.
- For added depth, sprinkle red pepper flakes when serving for a spicy contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
