Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake: Easy, Cheesy, and Family-Friendly Dinner Recipe
Looking for a comforting and delicious dinner that the whole family will love? This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is the perfect solution! Packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. It’s a one-dish wonder that combines protein, veggies, and carbs into a single, mouthwatering meal. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens for picky eaters!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders, cut into bite-size pieces
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 1/2 cups dry small shaped pasta (e.g., penne, rotini)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 3/4–1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Preparation
Stage 1: Cook the pasta in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
Stage 2: In a bowl, toss the chicken with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Stage 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Stage 4: Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted. Then, add 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
Stage 5: Turn off the heat and gently fold in the cooked pasta and broccoli.
Stage 6: Transfer everything to a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 15 minutes. Remove the foil, top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and bake for an additional 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Stage 7: Let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious meal!
