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Creamy Chicken, Broccoli & Cheese Baked Rigatoni

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Creamy Chicken, Broccoli & Cheese Baked Rigatoni

Description

Creamy Chicken, Broccoli & Cheese Baked Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort food casserole. Tender rigatoni pasta is tossed with juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, a rich homemade cheese sauce, and plenty of melted cheddar and mozzarella before being baked until golden and bubbly. This hearty one-pan meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, potlucks, and family gatherings. It combines protein, vegetables, and pasta in every delicious bite.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings

Serves: 6–8 people

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 pound (450 g) rigatoni
  • Water for boiling
  • 1 tablespoon salt

Chicken

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Broccoli

  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • Blanch for 2–3 minutes

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Topping

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • ½ cup cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup Parmesan
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Cook Pasta

Cook the rigatoni until just al dente according to package instructions.

Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet.

Season chicken with:

  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Cook for 6–8 minutes until fully cooked.

Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare Broccoli

Blanch broccoli in boiling water for 2–3 minutes.

Transfer immediately to ice water.

Drain well.

Step 4: Make Cheese Sauce

Melt butter over medium heat.

Add flour and whisk for 1 minute.

Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream.

Cook until thickened.

Stir in:

  • Garlic
  • Dijon mustard
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Nutmeg

Add cheeses gradually:

  • Cheddar
  • Mozzarella
  • Parmesan

Whisk until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble

In a large bowl combine:

  • Cooked pasta
  • Chicken
  • Broccoli
  • Cheese sauce

Mix until evenly coated.

Transfer into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Top with remaining cheeses.

Step 6: Bake

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes.

Broil for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Chef’s Notes

  • Slightly undercook the pasta since it continues cooking in the oven.
  • Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Blanching broccoli preserves its bright green color and tender-crisp texture.
  • Rotisserie chicken works well for a quicker version.
  • Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving so it slices neatly.

Helpful Tips

  • Add crispy bacon for extra flavor.
  • Mix in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for more vegetables.
  • Use smoked cheddar for a deeper, smoky taste.
  • Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you enjoy a little heat.
  • Freeze individual portions for easy lunches.

Storage

Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:
Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating:
Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 650
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fat: 34 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 135 mg
  • Sodium: 760 mg
  • Calcium: 40% DV
  • Iron: 15% DV

Nutrition values are estimates and vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Health Benefits

  • High in Protein: Chicken supports muscle growth and repair.
  • Rich in Calcium: Cheese provides calcium for healthy bones and teeth.
  • Contains Fiber: Broccoli contributes fiber for digestive health.
  • Vitamin C Source: Broccoli supplies vitamin C to support immune function.
  • Energy-Rich Meal: Pasta provides carbohydrates for sustained energy.
  • Balanced Comfort Food: Includes protein, vegetables, dairy, and grains in one dish.

Variations

  • Swap chicken for turkey.
  • Use whole wheat or high-protein pasta.
  • Substitute cauliflower for broccoli.
  • Add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Make it spicy with diced jalapeños.
  • Use Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain it well before mixing it into the casserole to avoid excess moisture.

Q: What cheese melts best?
A: A combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan gives the best balance of flavor, creaminess, and browning.

Q: Can I make this without heavy cream?
A: Yes. Replace the heavy cream with additional whole milk for a lighter sauce, though it will be slightly less rich.

Q: Can I freeze the baked casserole?
A: Yes. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: How do I keep the pasta from becoming mushy?
A: Cook the rigatoni just until al dente, as it will continue to soften while baking.

Q: Can I use another pasta shape?
A: Absolutely. Penne, ziti, fusilli, or cavatappi all work well.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: Pair it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or fresh fruit for a complete meal.

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