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Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pasta water to blanch them. Drain the pasta and broccoli and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
Add the cheddar cheese, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the sauce, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, and shredded chicken. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the top and stir everything together until well coated.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with the shredded mozzarella cheese and optional Parmesan. If you’re using breadcrumbs for extra crunch, sprinkle them evenly over the top.
5. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. If you like a crispy top, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.
6. Serve Hot
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese, if desired.
Variations and Tips
- Add more veggies: Feel free to mix in additional vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Use rotisserie chicken: If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option.
- Lighten it up: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or low-fat milk for a lighter version of the dish.
- Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready for a quick dinner.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Why This Casserole Is a Crowd-Pleaser
This creamy chicken and broccoli baked pasta casserole has everything you need for a satisfying meal — savory flavors, cheesy goodness, and that perfect comforting feel that we all crave from time to time. The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, cheesy sauce ensures that this dish will become a family favorite. It’s also an excellent choice for busy weeknights because it’s simple to make yet so delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful, and hearty dinner option, this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Baked Pasta Casserole is the perfect choice. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together around the table, making it a wonderful go-to recipe for any occasion. Just prepare, bake, and enjoy!