Broccoli and chicken pasta bake is a delicious, hearty meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. It’s an excellent comfort food dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year and is sure to please the whole family. This one-pan meal features wholesome ingredients like broccoli, chicken, and pasta, as well as a flavorful sauce.
The best part about this recipe is that it can be prepped ahead of time and then baked in the oven. This makes it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or special occasions, like holidays or family gatherings. Plus, it’s a great way to get your kids to eat their vegetables!
Ingredients
The ingredients for this recipe are simple and can be found in any grocery store. You will need:
- 1 pound of chicken breast, cut into 1 inch cubes
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 cups of elbow macaroni
- 1 jar of your favorite pasta sauce
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
This broccoli and chicken pasta bake is quick and easy to put together.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the macaroni. Cook until al dente, about 8 minutes.
- Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chicken. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the chicken is cooked through, about 8 minutes.
- Add the broccoli to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Drain the cooked macaroni, then add it to the skillet with the chicken and broccoli. Stir in the pasta sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Variations
This recipe is very versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes. Here are some ideas for variations:
- Replace the chicken with ground beef or turkey.
- Add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, or zucchini.
- Use a different type of pasta, such as penne or rotini.
- Replace the pasta sauce with a can of diced tomatoes.
- Top with bread crumbs for added crunch.
FAQs
What kind of cheese should I use?
You can use any type of cheese you like, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of both. You can also add other types of cheeses, such as Parmesan or feta, for added flavor.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the skillet.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe can be prepped ahead of time and then baked in the oven when you’re ready to serve it. If you’re prepping ahead of time, store the uncooked pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, you can freeze this recipe. Cool the pasta bake completely before transferring it to an airtight container and freezing. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the pasta bake in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in the oven as directed.
Can I substitute the chicken for something else?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with ground beef or turkey. You can also use other types of protein, such as tofu or tempeh.
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