Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together tender pasta, juicy chicken, and vibrant broccoli, all smothered in gooey cheese. This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need a wholesome meal that the whole family will love. It’s easy to prepare and makes for great leftovers too!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s packed with protein from the chicken and cheese, while broccoli adds a nutritious vegetable to your meal. Second, it’s simple and quick to make, reducing your time in the kitchen. Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can satisfy picky eaters, making it a perfect family dish!
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake
Here’s how you can easily create this tasty dish in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain well.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. If you like, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the dish is heated through and the top is golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake
Serve this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese on top right before serving for an even cheesier treat!
How to Store Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. To reheat, simply place it in the oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.
Tips to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake
- Feel free to use any type of pasta you have on hand; penne, fusilli, or even macaroni work great.
- For more flavor, consider adding spices like Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- To make this dish even creamier, you can add more cheese or a dollop of sour cream before baking.
Variation
You can customize this dish by adding different vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach. If you want, you can also swap out the chicken for cooked turkey or even diced ham for a different twist!
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, canned chicken works well for this recipe. Just drain it and shred it before combining with the other ingredients.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.
How can I make it healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta and reducing the cheese. You can also add more vegetables to boost the nutrition factor!
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain well.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. If you like, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the dish is heated through and the top is golden brown.
