Chicken and broccoli pasta bake is a classic comfort food dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy pasta base. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a family dinner, meal prep, or even a dinner party. This one-pan wonder is easy to make, versatile, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a small family, this dish is sure to please.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential steps for making Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake, provide a helpful cooking time table, offer an internal temperature guide, share tips for cooking, and highlight common mistakes to avoid to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
Cooking Time Table for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
The following cooking time table will help you organize your cooking and ensure that the dish is perfectly timed:
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep time (chop vegetables, cook chicken) | 15-20 minutes |
| Cook pasta and broccoli | 10-12 minutes |
| Assemble the casserole | 10 minutes |
| Bake the casserole | 25-30 minutes |
| Total Cooking Time | 1 hour |
From start to finish, this dish can be ready in about an hour, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners. You’ll be able to prepare everything while the casserole bakes, saving you time and energy.
Internal Temperature Guide
Since Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake includes cooked chicken, it’s crucial to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature. The recommended internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
For the pasta bake, check the internal temperature of the casserole toward the end of baking. The casserole should be heated through, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly. If needed, use a thermometer to check that the dish is hot in the center.
Ingredients for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
To make this comforting and flavorful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
For the casserole:
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cooked and diced (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie works well)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
This simple ingredient list is packed with flavor and creates a creamy, cheesy sauce that will coat the pasta, chicken, and broccoli perfectly.
Steps for Best Results
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by cooking the chicken breasts. You can pan-sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side over medium heat, or bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before dicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. In the last 3-4 minutes of cooking the pasta, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water to blanch them. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. The broccoli should be bright green and slightly tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and cook until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, diced chicken, and creamy sauce. Stir gently to ensure that all ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the top of the casserole with grated Parmesan cheese and a little extra mozzarella cheese for a cheesy, golden crust when it bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. The casserole should be heated through, with the cheese melted and slightly crispy at the edges.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread.
Tips for Cooking Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the casserole. It will save you time on cooking the chicken and still provide great flavor.
- Blanch the Broccoli: To keep the broccoli bright green and tender without overcooking it, blanch it in the boiling pasta water for just 3-4 minutes. This will preserve its nutrients and texture.
- Customize the Cheese: Feel free to mix up the cheeses based on your preferences. You can use a combination of mozzarella, cheddar, gouda, or even cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Just ensure you use enough cheese to create a creamy and cheesy sauce.
- Add Herbs for Extra Flavor: Fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or rosemary can enhance the flavor of the dish. Add them to the creamy sauce or sprinkle them over the casserole before baking.
- Make it Spicy: If you prefer a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts can easily dry out if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the correct internal temperature (165°F/74°C), and be careful not to overcook it while sautéing.
- Underseasoning the Sauce: Because the casserole includes chicken and pasta, it’s important to season the sauce well to enhance the flavors. Don’t be afraid to use enough salt, pepper, and garlic powder to bring out the best taste.
- Overcooking the Broccoli: While the broccoli needs to be tender, it can become mushy if overcooked. Blanching it quickly in the pasta water ensures it stays vibrant and slightly crisp.
- Not Letting the Casserole Rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to settle and thicken slightly. This helps the casserole hold together better when serving.
- Not Using Enough Sauce: Ensure there’s enough creamy sauce to coat the pasta and chicken. If you find the sauce too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out before mixing everything together.
Conclusion
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. By following the steps outlined in this article, along with the cooking time table and tips for success, you’ll achieve the perfect casserole every time.
Avoid common mistakes like overcooking the chicken or underseasoning the sauce, and your dish will turn out rich, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing leftovers, this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a great option that will leave everyone asking for seconds.