One-Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta

This creamy chicken and broccoli pasta bake hits all the marks when you need dinner on the table fast but crave comfort and heartiness. It all comes together in a single pot, which means minimal dishes and maximum flavor in less than forty minutes — a lifesaver on busy weeknights when the last thing I want is a kitchen full of pans.

I still remember when I first threw this together in a rush before a family movie night. The kids kept asking for seconds and my husband practically scraped the pot clean. Since then I have made it countless times for friends and family.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: Lends a hearty base and soaks up the creamy sauce. Look for quality bronze-cut pasta for best texture
• Diced chicken breast or thighs: Deliver lean high protein flavor. Use freshly diced or leftover cooked chicken for convenience
• Fresh broccoli: Adds color crunch and nutrients. Pick crowns that are deep green and firm
• Condensed cream of chicken soup: Is the shortcut to a rich velvety sauce
• Whole milk: Brings silkiness without heaviness. Opt for grass-fed or organic if possible
• Shredded cheese: Makes it gooey and satisfying. Cheddar and Monterey Jack melt best so look for blocks you can shred yourself

Instructions

Gather Ingredients:

Lay out your pasta chicken broccoli cream of chicken soup milk and cheese. Have your large pot ready on the stove for efficiency

Simmer the Base:

Into the pot combine the penne diced chicken chopped broccoli soup and milk. Give everything a thorough stir to coat the pasta and distribute ingredients evenly

Cook Until Tender:

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once bubbling reduce heat and simmer uncovered about twenty to twenty five minutes. Stir occasionally and make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. The pasta should be just tender and most of the liquid absorbed

Add the Cheese:

Once the pasta is tender sprinkle in the shredded cheese. Stir until all the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy

Finish and Serve:

Taste and season with salt or pepper if needed then dish up the pasta bake while piping hot. For an optional crispy finish scatter with breadcrumbs and pop under the broiler for two minutes

One of my favorite parts of this recipe is the way the cheese melts into every bite. Broccoli always reminds me of dinners with my grandmother who insisted it was the key to growing strong. Now I love sneaking extra into this dish for nutrition and nostalgia.

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days in a tightly sealed container. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back creaminess. You can also portion into individual servings for lunch boxes.

Ingredient Substitutions

No penne on hand Swap in rotini farfalle or even macaroni. Use rotisserie or leftover roast chicken if you are short on time. For a lighter sauce try using reduced fat milk and cheese or swap in Greek yogurt for half the soup.

Serving Suggestions

Pile into bowls and top with extra cheese a dusting of hot paprika or fresh parsley. Serve alongside a crunchy green salad or garlic bread for a satisfying meal. This pasta bake is also wonderful with a squeeze of lemon on top to brighten the flavors.

Cultural and Seasonal Adaptations

The one pot pasta bake is a classic in American home cooking especially in the Midwest. In spring use young tender broccoli and add peas or asparagus. In fall toss in a handful of chopped spinach or roasted squash before baking.

This dish brings comfort and ease together in every bite. With just one pot and a few everyday ingredients, mealtime can feel special and simple — just how family favorites should be.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with other short pastas like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle. Adjust cooking time as needed.

→ How do I know when the pasta is cooked?

Test the pasta after simmering for tenderness. It should be al dente and have absorbed the flavors from the sauce.

→ Is there a substitute for condensed cream of chicken soup?

You may use homemade white sauce or condensed cream of mushroom soup for a different taste profile.

→ How can I add more flavor?

Try adding garlic, herbs like thyme or parsley, or seasoning with black pepper and a pinch of nutmeg to the pot.

→ How do I make the top crunchy?

Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the finished dish and broil briefly until golden and crisp for extra texture.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.