Description
Get dinner on the table fast with this creamy chicken bacon broccoli pasta bake! Packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh broccoli, all coated in a rich, cheesy sauce made with cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. This easy, one-skillet meal is family-friendly, ultra-comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream (or whole milk)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta & Broccoli – Boil pasta according to package instructions, adding broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce – In a large oven-safe skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Cheese – Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth and melted.
- Combine Everything – Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, chicken, and bacon to the skillet, stirring to coat everything in the cheesy sauce.
- Bake (Optional for Crispiness) – If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs and a little extra cheese on top. Transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 10 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Serve & Enjoy – Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and satisfying pasta bake!
Notes
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version.
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta, Casserole
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
