Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Easy Chicken Pasta broccoli bake recipe

Comforting and cozy pasta casseroles, like this cheesy chicken and broccoli bake and Velveeta Mac and Cheese always seem to be a win-win at dinner time. Not only are they easy to throw together, but they are kid-friendly and versatile.

Chicken broccoli pasta casserole is a great way to sneak in some healthy vegetables or use up leftovers, such as cooked chicken or roasted veggies. Personally, I turn to this recipe time and again because preparing it with gluten-free pasta means one successful dish we can all enjoy!

Ingredient Notes

The beauty of chicken pasta broccoli bake is how adaptable the ingredients are. Leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, any preferred vegetables, or cheese may be used. It’s a great casserole to help save on food waste!

• Chicken – Use bite-sized pieces of boneless, skinless breasts, tenders, or thighs. If using leftover chicken or rotisserie, you will need 2-3 cups chopped.
• Broccoli – Fresh broccoli florets cook with the pasta water. Use smaller pieces to cook quickly. To use frozen broccoli, thaw first and then pat dry to soak up excess water.
• Pasta – I like to use rotini (fusilli) because the cheese sauce coats it well, but any short pasta will work, such as penne, elbow, farfalle, or whole wheat pasta. Gluten-free pasta also works great!
• Flour – To make a gluten-free casserole, substitute an all purpose gluten-free flour. My recommended brand is Cup4Cup.
• Cheese – When making cheese sauces, I like to use sharp cheddar for the flavor to shine through. However, swiss, colby, mozzarella, or any melting cheese will work. Freshly grated is preferred to eliminate graininess.

storing, freezing, and reheating tips

Chicken and broccoli pasta casserole will keep for 2-3 days refrigerated in an airtight container.

HOW TO REHEAT:

Take out a serving size and place on a microwave safe dish. Heat at 50% power for 2 minutes. Mix gently and finish heating at full power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

HOW TO FREEZE / HEAT UNBAKED:

1. Assemble the casserole, cool completely, and cover tightly. Freeze for up to 3 months.
2. When ready to serve, thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight.
3. Bake according to directions, covering with foil so it doesn’t become dry.
4. It may need an extra 10-15 minutes to warm through.

HOW TO FREEZE / REHEAT BAKED:

1. Divide into serving-size portions and freeze up to 3 months.
2. Thaw serving in the refrigerator.
3. Microwave at 50% power until almost heated through, stirring occasionally. Finish heating at full power to warm completely.