Go Back
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warmth and satisfaction of a cheesy chicken and broccoli bake. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, all baked together with pasta for a meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying dish to serve at family gatherings, the Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bliss Bake has you covered.

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bliss Bake! This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce, all baked with pasta for a satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also adaptable to different dietary needs. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Try it today for a warm, delicious hug on a plate!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (using rotisserie chicken is ideal)

2 cups broccoli florets (can be fresh or frozen)

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is ready when you’re ready to bake.

    Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add in the uncooked pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Blanch the Broccoli: Using the same pot, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. After a few minutes, drain again to remove excess water.

        Prepare the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it's fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.

          Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, shredded chicken, blanched broccoli, and the creamy sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure that all ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce.

            Add Cheese: Carefully fold in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the mixture, leaving the remaining cheese aside for topping later.

              Prepare to Bake: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. If you’d like a crispy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer.

                Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | 6-8 servings

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve directly from the baking dish or portion onto individual plates. Pair with a side salad for a complete meal. Garnish with extra parsley for an added touch of freshness!