The Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. It’s packed with tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and pasta, all smothered in a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is a wonderful balance of protein, vegetables, and carbs, making it both filling and flavorful.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Pasta bakes, originating from Italian casseroles like lasagna, have become a staple in many cultures due to their ease of preparation and versatility. The combination of pasta, vegetables, and meat in a creamy sauce is reminiscent of classic American comfort foods that bring families together around the dinner table. The inclusion of broccoli adds a healthful twist, introducing a nutritious vegetable commonly used in Western cuisine.
Ingredients Quantity
For a serving of 4-6 people, you’ll need:
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
3 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
3 cups cooked pasta (penne or fusilli works best)
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Additions
Chili flakes for a hint of spice
Breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch
Spinach or peas for added vegetables
Bacon bits for extra richness and flavor
Tips for Success
Pre-cook the pasta just until al dente; this will prevent it from becoming mushy when baked.
Blanch the broccoli for a few minutes before adding it to the bake to preserve its vibrant color and retain nutrients.
Season the sauce well to ensure the pasta doesn’t taste bland.
Let the bake rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to settle and thicken.
Use a variety of cheeses for richer flavor. Combining mozzarella with sharp cheddar or Gruyère can enhance the dish.
Instructions
Prepare the ingredients: Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. Blanch or steam the broccoli until slightly tender. Set aside. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Make the sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for another minute. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens.
Season the sauce: Stir in the thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of Parmesan until melted and smooth.
Assemble the bake: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and stir to coat everything evenly.
Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top. For an extra crispy topping, you can add breadcrumbs or a drizzle of olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Cool and serve: Let the pasta bake cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Description
The Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake combines tender chicken and nutritious broccoli with pasta in a rich, cheesy sauce. The topping of melted mozzarella and Parmesan gives a satisfying golden crust, while the inside stays moist and creamy. Each bite is bursting with savory, herby goodness, making it the perfect cozy meal for any occasion.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: ~450 kcal
Protein: 28g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 4g
Calcium: 25% of daily recommended intake
Iron: 15% of daily recommended intake
Conclusion
This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect combination of wholesome ingredients and indulgent flavors. It’s an ideal dish for those busy weeknights when you want to feed the family a nutritious meal, but still crave the comfort of creamy pasta.