🥦🧀 Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake

Creamy, cheesy, comforting, and topped with golden crispy breadcrumbs—this easy casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner!

Prep: 20 minutes
Bake: 25 minutes
Total: ~45 minutes
Serves: 6–8

🛒 Ingredients

For the pasta bake:

• 12 oz (340 g) penne, rotini, or shell pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into bite-size pieces
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp paprika

For the crispy topping:

• ¾ cup breadcrumbs or panko
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the pasta:
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta in salted water until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the broccoli:
   Steam or blanch the broccoli for about 2–3 minutes, just until bright green and slightly tender. Drain well.
3. Make the creamy sauce:
   Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth.
5. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. Add cream cheese, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Stir until the cream cheese melts.
6. Add the cheese:
   Remove from the heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella until melted and creamy.
7. Combine:
   In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix gently until everything is well coated.
8. Assemble:
   Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
9. Make the topping:
   Mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
10. Bake:
    Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbling around the edges and golden brown on top.
11. Rest and serve:
    Let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

⭐ Tips

• Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for a quick version.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy topping.
• For even more cheesy flavor, add a little Parmesan to the sauce.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli—it will continue cooking in the oven.

ENJOY