Looking for a quick and comforting dinner option? This 30 Minute Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect solution! It’s a delightful blend of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese all baked together. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Imagine a creamy pasta dish that not only pleases your taste buds but also nourishes your body. This recipe combines the goodness of chicken and broccoli with the rich flavor of cheddar cheese, making it a family favorite. Plus, it comes together in just half an hour, so you can enjoy more time with your loved ones.
A Comforting Dish for Any Occasion
This broccoli cheddar chicken pasta bake stands out as a delightful meal that brings warmth to the table.
The dish features tender pieces of chicken and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy cheddar sauce that creates a satisfying experience with every bite.
Perfectly cooked pasta serves as the base, absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce while adding texture.
It’s an ideal option for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something hearty yet quick to prepare.
Simple Ingredients for a Hearty Meal
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With minimal ingredients, you can whip up a delicious main course that pleases everyone.
Key components include cooked chicken, fresh broccoli, and the star of the show—cheddar cheese.
These ingredients work harmoniously to create layers of flavor, making each serving a comforting delight.
Quick Preparation and Cooking Process
In just 30 minutes, you can have this dish ready from prep to table.
Start by cooking the pasta until it’s al dente, then combine it with the other ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
After mixing everything together, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.
This straightforward process allows you to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The Perfect Presentation
Once baked, this dish is visually appealing, with golden melted cheese and bright green broccoli florets peeking through.
Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Serve it on a cozy dining table alongside a hearty loaf of bread to soak up any leftover sauce, making for a complete and comforting meal.
A Family Favorite
This broccoli cheddar chicken pasta bake is more than just a meal; it’s a family favorite that can be enjoyed by all ages.
The creamy, cheesy goodness appeals to children, while the nutritious ingredients satisfy adults looking for a wholesome dinner.
It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together, making mealtime a cherished experience.
Endless Variations
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are endless possibilities for customization.
Consider adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to enhance the nutritional profile.
You can also experiment with different cheeses or spices to create your own twist.
This flexibility allows you to adapt the dish to fit your family’s preferences and dietary needs.
An Easy and Delicious Chicken Pasta Bake
This broccoli cheddar chicken pasta bake boasts a creamy, cheesy flavor with a satisfying crunch from the broccoli. The pasta is perfectly cooked and enveloped in a rich sauce, making each bite a comfort-filled experience.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top and add breadcrumbs if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
