Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe

This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe is my go-to comfort meal when I want something cozy yet satisfying that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and fresh broccoli, it’s a real crowd-pleaser every time.

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Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients & Why They Work
• Make It Your Way
• Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe
• Top Tip
• How to Serve Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe
• Make Ahead and Storage
• Frequently Asked Questions:
• Final Thoughts
• Delicious Recipe

Ingredients & Why They Work

The magic here lies in simple ingredients that come together with ease. Each adds its own texture and flavor, creating a bake that’s anything but ordinary. I like to prep everything beforehand to keep the process smooth.

• Chicken breast: Lean, tender, and cooks quickly when cut into cubes for even cooking.
• Broccoli florets: They add a fresh crunch and bright color, plus a nice balance to the creamy sauce.
• Fusilli pasta: Its twists hold onto the cheese sauce beautifully, but penne or rigatoni work too.
• Chicken broth & half and half: This combo creates a rich, comforting sauce without being too heavy.
• Cheddar & Parmesan cheese: Sharp cheddar gives body and meltiness, while Parmesan amps up flavor and creaminess.
• White wine: Adds subtle acidity and depth—don’t worry, it cooks off during the simmer.
• Garlic & herbs: Basics that bring warmth and complexity without overpowering.
• Crispy fried onions: My secret topping that adds irresistible texture and a bit of savory crunch.

Make It Your Way

I’ve learned you can easily tweak this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe to suit your taste or pantry. Sometimes I swap the broccoli for spinach, or add mushrooms for extra umami. Feel free to experiment—this recipe is forgiving.

• Swap the veggies: Roasted cauliflower or green beans work beautifully if you want a little variety or it’s what you have on hand.
• Dairy-free version: Use coconut milk and a vegan cheese alternative to make this suitable for dairy intolerances.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne if you like a little heat.
• Protein changes: Try turkey or even cooked sausage for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prep the sauce ingredients ahead

Before heating anything, I whisk together the broth, half and half, hot sauce, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and seasonings in a measuring cup with a spout. Having this ready makes adding the sauce to the pan later way easier and less stressful.

Step 2: Sear the chicken for flavor and texture

I cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes, pat it dry (this is key for browning), then season well. A quick sear in olive oil until golden but not overdone gives a wonderful flavor base without drying out the chicken.

Step 3: Pasta and broccoli cook together

Once the water boils, I salt it generously (it should taste like the sea!) and cook the pasta for one minute less than the package says. Adding the broccoli florets into the same pot during the last 4 minutes ensures the veg stays tender but crisp and saves a pot.

Step 4: Build the sauce with wine and roux

Back in the skillet, I add the white wine to deglaze, scraping up those tasty browned bits left from the chicken. After it’s reduced by half, I melt in butter and garlic, then whisk in flour to create a smooth roux. Slowly whisking in the sauce mix until it thickens is where the magic happens.

Step 5: Combine and bake to perfection

I fold in half the cheddar and all the Parmesan to melt into the sauce gently, then stir in the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken. Transferring everything to a casserole dish, I top with the remaining cheddar, cover and bake, then finish with crispy onions for that golden crunch.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle extra Parmesan on top right before serving and sometimes add a few fresh basil or parsley leaves for color. The crispy fried onions on top add such a satisfying crunch and layers of flavor—you really don’t want to skip those.

Side Dishes

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread pairs perfectly to cut through the richness, giving your meal a nice balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, I’ve served this pasta bake in individual ramekins topped with extra crispy onions and fresh herbs—everyone loves having their own cozy little casserole. You could also add a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of red chili flakes for a more upscale vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and find they're best enjoyed within three days. The flavors often deepen after resting, making for even better lunches!

Freezing

This bake freezes beautifully. Just cool completely, pack into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to three months. For busy weeks, it’s a lifesaver to have ready-made comfort food.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers on medium power in the microwave or gently over the stovetop using a double boiler method to keep the sauce smooth and prevent the cheese from separating. Adding a splash of milk or broth when reheating helps keep it creamy.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe has become a beloved staple at my table for so many reasons—the comforting creamy sauce, the vibrant green broccoli, and those surprise crispy onions on top. It feels like a special meal without any fuss. I hope you give it a try and find it as satisfying and easy as I do—you’ll thank yourself on those busy nights when you just want a cozy, homey dish that hits the spot.

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