If you are searching for that perfect comfort food that combines cheesy goodness, tender chicken, and vibrant green broccoli, then this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe is made just for you. This dish wraps up all the cozy warmth of a baked pasta casserole with the fresh crunch of broccoli and juicy chunks of seasoned chicken, creating a harmonious medley of textures and flavors. Trust me, once you try this irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation, bringing smiles to the dinner table every time!

Chicken breast cubes seasoned with Italian herbs and freshly cracked black pepper, vibrant green broccoli florets clustered neatly, raw fusilli pasta spirals arranged in a small pile, a small bowl of golden crispy fried onions, a pat of creamy butter next to minced garlic cloves, grated Parmesan cheese and shredded bright orange cheddar cheese displayed side by side on rustic wooden scoops, a small glass measuring cup filled with pale creamy half and half mixed with chicken broth, a halved chicken bouillon cube, small glass containers holding soy sauce, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, olive oil with a subtle sheen, and white wine with gentle reflections, assorted small bowls containing paprika, onion powder, garlic salt, oregano, parsley, and Italian seasoning powders arranged like scattered pigments, all artfully set on a clean white marble surface that enhances the colors and textures, natural soft daylight illuminating from the side creating delicate shadows, minimalistic styling with a touch of rustic charm from wooden spoons and linen napkins, subtle steam effect suggesting warmth, crisp and vivid details, overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your ingredients together for this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe is both simple and exciting because each one plays an important part. From the creamy sauce to the perfectly seasoned chicken and the fresh broccoli, every component creates a symphony of taste and texture that is unforgettable.

Chicken broth (1 ½ cups): This forms the flavorful base of your sauce, giving it depth without heaviness.
Half and half (1 ¼ cups): Adds creamy richness that melds beautifully with the cheese.
Chicken bouillon cube (½): Concentrates the savory chicken flavor for an extra punch.
Hot sauce (1 teaspoon): Just a hint to brighten and balance the creaminess with a subtle kick.
Soy sauce (1 teaspoon): Adds umami depth and complexity to the sauce.
Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Gives sharp tang that enhances flavor layers without overpowering.
Onion powder, oregano, parsley (½ teaspoon each): These herbs and spices lightly season the sauce with aromatic warmth.
Paprika and garlic salt (¼ teaspoon each): Offer smokiness and savory notes to round out the taste.
Olive oil (1-2 tablespoons): Ideal for searing the chicken to golden perfection.
Boneless skinless chicken breast (1 ¼ lbs.): The protein star, providing tender, juicy bites throughout the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential basics to season chicken and pasta just right.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Sprinkled on the chicken for that classic Italian flavor profile.
Dry white wine (½ cup): Adds acidity and helps deglaze the pan for a rich sauce foundation.
Garlic cloves (3, minced): Infuses the entire bake with lovely, fragrant garlic aroma.
Butter (3 tablespoons): Combines with flour to create a luscious roux for thickening the sauce.
Flour (3 tablespoons): Essential for building the creamy sauce’s body.
Fusilli pasta (½ lb.): The spiraled shape holds sauce beautifully and provides satisfying bite.
Broccoli florets (3-4 cups): Offer freshness, color, and a slight crunch that balances the creamy texture.
Grated Parmesan cheese (3 tablespoons): Adds a nutty, salty flavor that enhances the sauce.
Cheddar cheese (3 cups): Melted cheese goodness that blankets the entire dish in gooey comfort.
Crispy fried onions (1 cup): The crowning touch for added texture and savory crunch on top.

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 350° F. This ensures everything will bake evenly once your delicious mixture is ready to go in the casserole dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a large measuring cup with a spout, combine the chicken broth, half and half, bouillon cube, hot sauce, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and all the dried herbs and spices. Setting this aside lets all those wonderful flavors mingle while you prep the rest of the dish.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Cut your chicken into bite-sized cubes and pat dry for a nice sear. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This step is crucial for layering flavor right from the start.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden on all sides and just cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to keep those juices locked in.

Step 5: Cook Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Stir in the fusilli pasta and cook for about one minute less than package instructions to keep it al dente. During the last 4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets directly to the pot. This way, they steam right along with the pasta, maintaining their bright color and natural snap.

Step 6: Deglaze the Pan with Wine

Return the skillet used to cook the chicken to medium heat and pour in the white wine. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any flavorful brown bits stuck to the bottom and sides—this is where a ton of flavor comes from. Let the wine reduce by half, about 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 7: Create the Roux

Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for one minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour continuously for two minutes to cook out the raw taste, forming a smooth base for your sauce.

Step 8: Add the Sauce Mixture

Slowly pour in the reserved sauce mixture in small splashes, whisking constantly. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully.

Step 9: Incorporate the Cheeses

Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and half of the cheddar gradually into the sauce, stirring until melted and interwoven into the creamy base.

Step 10: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce

Drain your pasta and broccoli well, then add them to the sauce. Stir to coat every piece with luscious creaminess.

Step 11: Add the Chicken

Return the browned chicken to the skillet along with any resting juices. Fold everything together to distribute all the flavors evenly.

Step 12: Prepare for Baking

If your pot isn’t safe for the oven, transfer the entire mixture into a lightly greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. This is where the magic of melting and bubbling will happen.

Step 13: Bake Covered

Top your casserole with the remaining cheddar cheese and cover loosely. Bake for 15 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt fully and the flavors to meld.

Step 14: Finish with Crispy Onions

Remove the cover and sprinkle the crispy fried onions over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until the onions are golden and irresistible. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting bite!

How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra touch of vibrant color and flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over your pasta bake right before serving. A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper also lifts the dish beautifully. These simple garnishes add a fresh pop that balances the creamy richness.

Side Dishes

Because the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe is quite hearty on its own, lighter sides work best. Consider a crisp garden salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted cherry tomatoes for a juicy contrast. Garlic bread or a warm baguette are classic companions to scoop up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini casserole dishes or even large scalloped shells placed under the broiler to brown the cheese topping. Alternatively, make this pasta bake the centerpiece for a potluck by turning it into a buffet-style dish with a toppings bar including extra cheeses, herbs, and crispy bacon bits.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe cools to room temperature, cover the dish tightly and store in the refrigerator. Leftovers should be eaten within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and quality. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making your next meal just as satisfying.

Freezing

This pasta bake freezes beautifully if you want to save some for later. Portion into airtight containers or cover your casserole dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy anytime you crave comfort food quickly.

Reheating

Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in a 350° F oven covered with foil to prevent drying out. Finish uncovered for a few minutes to re-crisp the crispy fried onion topping and restore that signature crunch.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While fusilli works wonderfully because it holds sauce well, penne, rotini, or rigatoni are excellent alternatives if you prefer or have them on hand. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the chicken and substitute with hearty veggies like mushrooms or roasted cauliflower. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and consider adding extra cheese or plant-based protein for balance.

What can I substitute for white wine?

If you’d rather skip the wine, chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar works well to provide acidity and brightness in the sauce without alcohol.

How spicy is this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe?

The hot sauce adds a subtle warmth but nothing overpowering, so it’s suitable for most palates. Feel free to adjust the amount up or down depending on your preference.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead and bake later?

Definitely! Assemble everything up to Step 12, cover tightly, and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. Then bake as directed when ready to serve for fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe truly hits all the right notes—from creamy, cheesy sauce and perfectly cooked chicken to vibrant broccoli and a crunchy topping. It’s a dish to cherish whether for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. I wholeheartedly recommend giving this recipe a try; it’s comfort food at its finest and guaranteed to bring warm smiles to every table it graces.