🌿 Overview

A rich, creamy pasta bake made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a velvety Mediterranean-style garlic cheese sauce. Perfectly baked until golden and bubbling, this dish combines comfort with the wholesome, herb-infused flavors of the Mediterranean.

🕒 Total Time

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour

🍽️ Serves: 4–6 people

🧺 Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

  • 12 oz (340 g) rigatoni, penne, or ziti pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite-size pieces
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional for warmth)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

For the Topping

  • ½ cup mozzarella or Italian blend cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil

🔪 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
  3. During the last 2 minutes of boiling, add the broccoli florets to the same pot.
  4. Drain pasta and broccoli together, then set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and paprika.
  3. Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
  4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
  4. Slowly whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
  5. Add salt, pepper, nutmeg, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Stir until melted and silky.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

4. Combine Everything

  1. Add cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken into the sauce.
  2. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  3. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish (about 9×13 inches).

5. Bake

  1. Sprinkle the top with extra mozzarella cheese.
  2. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.
  3. If you like a crispier top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

6. Garnish and Serve

  • Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
  • Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or basil.
  • Serve warm with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.

🍋 Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a Mediterranean tomato-cucumber salad or garlic flatbread.
  • Serve with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for brightness.

💡 Tips & Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add roasted mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
  • Protein Swap: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken.
  • Cheese Variations: Try a mix of feta and mozzarella for a stronger Mediterranean flavor.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

🌈 Why You’ll Love It

  • Comforting and family-friendly
  • Creamy without being too heavy
  • Packed with protein, vegetables, and Mediterranean herbs
  • Great for leftovers and meal prep