Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rainbow Pasta Bake
This delightful Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rainbow Pasta Bake is a vibrant and comforting one-dish meal that brings together colorful tri-color spiral pasta, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli. Enhanced with creamy soup, sharp cheddar cheese, and a harmonious blend of flavors, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Easy to prepare and bake, it delivers heartwarming satisfaction in every bite. Serve this versatile dish on cooler evenings or whenever you crave a hearty meal everyone will enjoy!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
tri-color spiral pasta
12 ounces (uncooked)
frozen broccoli or mixed vegetables
10 ounces (thawed)
cooked chicken
1.5-2 cups (cubed (or canned chicken))
sharp cheddar cheese
1.5 cups (shredded)
condensed cream of chicken soup or cream of mushroom soup
10.75 ounces (can)
milk
1 cup
mushroom stems and pieces
4 ounces (drained)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Cook the tri-color spiral pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, thawed broccoli (or mixed vegetables), cubed chicken, 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, condensed cream of chicken or mushroom soup, milk, and drained mushroom stems and pieces. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
4
Grease a 13x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Spoon the pasta mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.
5
Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup of sharp cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
6
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.
7
Remove from the oven and let it stand for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rainbow Pasta Bake?
It is a colorful and comforting one-dish meal featuring tri-color spiral pasta, tender chicken, and broccoli in a creamy cheese sauce.
What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 12 ounces of uncooked tri-color spiral pasta to add visual variety and texture.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, while tri-color spirals are recommended, you can substitute them with rotini, fusilli, or penne.
Do I need to cook the pasta before putting it in the oven?
Yes, the pasta should be boiled in salted water until it is al dente before being mixed with the other ingredients.
How much chicken is required?
You will need 1.5 to 2 cups of cooked chicken, either cubed or canned.
Is it okay to use canned chicken?
Yes, canned chicken is a perfectly acceptable and convenient substitute for fresh cooked chicken.
What kind of broccoli should I use?
The recipe specifies 10 ounces of frozen broccoli that has been thawed.
Can I substitute other vegetables for broccoli?
Yes, you can use a frozen mixed vegetable blend instead of just broccoli.
What kind of cheese works best for this bake?
Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for its strong flavor and excellent melting properties.
How much cheese is used in total?
The recipe uses 1.5 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided between the mixture and the topping.
What kind of soup is needed for the sauce?
You can use one 10.75-ounce can of condensed cream of chicken soup or cream of mushroom soup.
Do I need to add milk?
Yes, 1 cup of milk is added to the mixture to create a creamy consistency.
Are mushrooms included in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes 4 ounces of drained mushroom stems and pieces.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
What size baking dish is needed?
A standard 13x9-inch baking dish should be used.
Should I grease the baking dish?
Yes, grease the dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent the pasta from sticking.
How long does the casserole bake?
Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes.
Should the dish be covered while baking?
No, the recipe instructs to bake the casserole uncovered so the cheese can melt and turn golden.
How do I know when the bake is finished?
The casserole is done when it is hot and bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden brown.
Why should I let the dish stand for 10 minutes?
Letting it stand helps the sauce thicken and makes the casserole easier to serve.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and ensure you use cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken soup.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely, rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time and add extra flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for a potluck?
Yes, it is an ideal potluck dish because it is easy to transport and serves a crowd.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the pasta bake?
Yes, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve as a side with this meal?
A simple side salad or garlic bread complements the flavors of this hearty casserole.
Can I add extra spices to the mix?
Yes, feel free to add garlic powder, onion powder, or black pepper for extra depth.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the colorful rainbow pasta and cheesy sauce make it very popular with children.
How many people does this recipe serve?
While not explicitly stated, a 13x9 dish typically serves 6 to 8 people.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, but it is recommended to lightly steam or blanch fresh broccoli before adding it to ensure it is tender.