Family Night Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy pasta bake fresh from the oven. This Family Night Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake hits all the right notes—tender chicken, fresh green broccoli, melty mozzarella, and a creamy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.
It’s simple enough for a weeknight but satisfying enough to serve when you’ve got hungry mouths to feed and want to avoid a dinner table mutiny. Bonus: it’s a one-dish wonder that lets you sneak in the veggies while still earning rave reviews.
Why I Love This Recipe
This dish is basically dinner insurance—every time I make it, it disappears. It’s loaded with flavor, comes together with everyday ingredients, and bakes into a bubbly, golden-topped casserole that smells like a hug. You get everything you need in one bite: protein, carbs, veggies, and cheese. What more could you want?
It’s also a great make-ahead option, and it reheats like a dream. That’s what I call family-night magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound chicken tenders, cut into bite-size pieces
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1½ cups dry small-shaped pasta (penne, rotini, shells, etc.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¾–1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Ingredient Swaps and Notes
- Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta if needed or whole wheat for a fiber boost.
- Broccoli: Frozen florets can be used in a pinch—just thaw and drain first.
- Cheese: Want extra flavor? Sub part of the mozzarella with sharp white cheddar.
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente, following package directions. Toss in the broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Toss your bite-sized chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl until evenly coated.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear until browned on the outside (they don’t need to be fully cooked through yet).
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cream cheese cubes until melted and creamy. Then add ¾ cup of mozzarella and stir until melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 5: Mix It All Together
Turn off the heat. Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce and chicken. Gently toss to combine.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Transfer everything to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan, and bake uncovered for 3–5 more minutes, until melty and golden.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Allow the pasta bake to rest for 5 minutes before serving so it sets nicely.
Tips for Success
- Cut broccoli into small florets so they cook evenly with the pasta.
- Don’t skip resting time—it helps everything firm up and slice cleanly.
- Add red pepper flakes for a subtle heat kick if your crew enjoys spice.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This pasta bake is hearty enough to be a one-and-done meal, but if you want to round things out:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or Caesar salad.
- A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon is perfect for the grown-ups.
- Pair it with These Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a potluck or game day mash-up!
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions in foil or freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Reheat: Sprinkle a splash of chicken broth or milk over before reheating to bring the creaminess back.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole Is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit
- These Chicken Enchiladas Are My Go-To for Cozy Crowd-Pleasing Dinners
- This Instant Pot Lasagna Is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast
- These Easy Turkey Wings Are My Favorite Comfort Food for Lazy Sundays
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas Are My Favorite Way to Feed a Crowd Fast
Final Thoughts
This Family Night Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a surefire hit that brings everyone to the table—no complaints, no leftovers, no stress. It’s warm, filling, and packed with simple ingredients that work together in the best possible way.
Tried it? I’d love to know how it turned out! Drop a comment below, tag @chefmaniac in your dinnertime photos, and don’t forget to follow along for more family-friendly meals made easy.
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