This recipe is inspired by the photo—tender chicken and broccoli tossed with pasta in a rich, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, then baked until bubbly and golden.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Easy

 Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

• 12 oz (340 g) penne, rigatoni, or shells
• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

 Creamy Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (480 ml) milk
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• Pinch of red pepper flakes, optional

 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the pasta 1–2 minutes less than the package directions. It should be slightly firm because it will continue cooking in the oven.

Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Broccoli

Add broccoli to boiling water during the final 2–3 minutes of pasta cooking.

Drain well.

You can also steam the broccoli separately until bright green and just tender.

3. Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Season chicken with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Add chicken and cook for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through.

Add 3 cloves minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds.

Remove from heat.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.

Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.

Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.

Add heavy cream and continue cooking for 3–5 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens.

Stir in Parmesan, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and a little salt.

For a little heat, add red pepper flakes.

5. Combine Everything

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large bowl, combine:

• Cooked pasta
• Chicken
• Broccoli
• Creamy sauce

Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.

6. Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly.

Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.

7. Bake

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

For a more golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end while watching carefully.

8. Rest & Garnish

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.

 Tips for the Best Chicken & Broccoli Bake

• Don’t overcook the pasta before baking.
• Cut chicken into similarly sized pieces so it cooks evenly.
• Freshly grated Parmesan melts especially well.
• Steam broccoli just until tender so it doesn’t become mushy.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk before combining.

Easy Variations

Extra Cheesy: Add another ½ cup mozzarella.

Mushroom Chicken: Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms when cooking the chicken.

Spinach: Stir in 2 cups fresh spinach before transferring to the baking dish.

Turkey: Substitute cooked turkey for chicken.

Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of chili powder.

 Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. If the pasta seems dry when reheating, add a small splash of milk.

 Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes. Thaw and drain it well first so excess water doesn’t thin the sauce.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. Use about 3 cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken and skip the chicken-cooking step.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What pasta works best?

Penne, rigatoni, shells, rotini, and bow-tie pasta all work well.

Can I make it without heavy cream?

Yes. Replace the heavy cream with additional milk for a lighter sauce.

Why is my casserole dry?

The pasta can absorb a lot of sauce. Make sure the sauce is fairly creamy before baking and don’t overbake.

Can I freeze it?

Yes. Cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.

What should I serve with it?

A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread makes a great side.

Quick Recipe Card

Cook pasta → blanch broccoli → season & cook chicken → make creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce → combine → top with mozzarella & Parmesan → bake at 375°F/190°C for 20–25 minutes → garnish with parsley.