Here’s a Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake recipe that’s perfect for a hearty family dinner or meal prepping. It’s rich, comforting, and loaded with flavor.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the Pasta Bake:
2 cups (200g) pasta – penne, rotini, or fusilli work best
2 cups (about 250g) cooked chicken – shredded or diced (use rotisserie, grilled, or leftover chicken)
2 cups (200g) broccoli florets – fresh or frozen
1½ cups (150g) shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tsp dried Italian herbs or oregano (optional)
½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
For the Creamy Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups (480ml) milk – whole or 2%
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream – optional for extra creaminess
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup (50g) shredded cheddar cheese – for flavor depth (optional)
🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch (or similar) baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook 2 minutes less than the package directions (it will cook more in the oven).
In the last 2–3 minutes of pasta cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot.
Drain pasta and broccoli, and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic, and sauté for about 30 seconds.
Sprinkle in flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes to cook off the raw taste (this forms a roux).
Gradually whisk in the milk (and cream if using), making sure no lumps form.
Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring often, until the sauce thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
Stir in onion powder, salt, pepper, and cheddar cheese (if using). Stir until melted and smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 4: Combine Everything
In a large bowl (or the same pasta pot), combine:
Cooked pasta and broccoli
Cooked chicken
Creamy sauce
Half the mozzarella cheese
Stir well to coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Optionally, sprinkle with Italian herbs or chili flakes.
Bake in preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
For a crispier top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes (watch closely!).
🥗 Serving Suggestions
Serve with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
Can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, and reheats well.
Freezes nicely before baking – thaw and bake when needed.
🔄 Variations
Add-ins: sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, peas, or spinach
Protein swap: Use turkey, ham, or tofu instead of chicken
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour