The Best Broccoli Ziti and Chicken

Broccoli ziti and chicken is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, blending tender chicken, perfectly cooked ziti, and crisp broccoli in a creamy, flavorful sauce. It’s more than just a chicken casserole—it’s a heartwarming dish that combines indulgence with nourishment

Perfect for easy dinners, this recipe checks all the boxes for family-friendly dishes and healthy meals. It’s packed with vibrant vegetables and comforting flavors, making it ideal for both weeknights and special occasions.

Need meal prep inspiration? This veggie-loaded dish is perfect for busy days—it reheats like a dream and takes the stress out of mealtime. One bite, and it’s bound to be a new family favorite!

The Perfect Weeknight Comfort Meal

On hectic weeknights, a one-pan chicken broccoli ziti is the perfect family-friendly option. Packed with lean protein, nutritious veggies, and hearty pasta, this comforting classic comes together in just 30 minutes.

Benefits of One-Pan Cooking

• Minimal cleanup: One-pan wonders like this chicken broccoli ziti let you spend more time savoring your meal and less time tackling a sink full of dishes.
• Time-efficient: By cooking everything in a single pan, you can whip up a wholesome, balanced dinner in less than an hour.
• Rich flavors: The pasta releases starch as it cooks, naturally creating a creamy, flavorful sauce—no heavy cream required!

Why This Recipe Works

This one-pan chicken broccoli ziti is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience—family-friendly, quick, and wholesome. Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and hearty pasta, it’s a balanced and nourishing meal. Its simplicity and versatility make it easy to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

“This one-pan chicken broccoli ziti is an ideal weeknight dinner—hearty, simple to prepare, and ready to enjoy in just 30 minutes.”

Essential Ingredients for Success

To prepare this delicious broccoli ziti and chicken dish, start with the essentials. The foundation of the recipe is lean protein from boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which are both nutritious and satisfying.

Fresh broccoli florets are a must for their vitamins, fiber, and vibrant flavor. Whole wheat pasta is another key ingredient, adding extra nutrients and hearty substance to this wholesome dish.

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (1 pound)
• Tender and lean protein, perfect for sautéing, grilling, or baking.
• Can be seasoned to complement the flavors of the dish.
• Cut into bite-sized pieces or thin strips for even cooking and easy incorporation into the pasta.
• Broccoli Florets (3 cups, about 1 pound)
• Fresh, vibrant green florets that add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor.
• A nutritious addition, rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber.
• Can be steamed, roasted, or blanched to maintain a bright green color and crisp-tender texture.
• Dried Whole Wheat Penne Pasta (8-12 ounces)
• A hearty and wholesome pasta option made with whole grains for added fiber and nutrients.
• Its ridged surface is ideal for clinging to creamy or light sauces.
• A versatile pasta shape that pairs well with vegetables and proteins for a balanced dish.

The creamy sauce is a lighter alternative, made with non-fat milk and chicken broth. It creates a smooth, velvety texture without the added fat of heavy cream.

The dish gets its delicious flavor from a mix of spices and seasonings, including garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. These ingredients come together to create a meal that’s both flavorful and nutritious.

Opting for whole wheat pasta, lean protein, and fresh vegetables ensures your Broccoli Ziti and Chicken dish is both healthy and satisfying—a meal the whole family will enjoy.

Choosing the Right Pasta and Substitutions

The pasta selection is key to this flavorful Broccoli Ziti and Chicken recipe. While ziti is the classic choice, you can easily substitute it with other tube-shaped options like rigatoni, rotini, or penne. These alternatives work just as well, offering flexibility to suit your taste or pantry staples.

Best Pasta Types for This Dish

Ziti is the preferred pasta for this recipe, thanks to its shape and texture, which pair perfectly with the sauce and other ingredients. However, rigatoni, rotini, or penne make excellent substitutes, delivering a similar taste and cooking performance.

Whole Wheat vs. Regular Pasta Options

Selecting whole wheat pasta boosts the nutritional value of your dish. It provides more fiber, B vitamins, and essential minerals compared to regular pasta, making your Broccoli Ziti and Chicken healthier while still maintaining great flavor and texture.

Al Dente Cooking Tips

Cooking your pasta al dente is essential, regardless of the type you choose. This ensures the pasta stays firm and maintains its shape when combined with the other ingredients. Keep a close eye on it while it cooks to achieve that perfect al dente texture.

Broccoli Ziti and Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide

Whipping up the flavorful Broccoli Ziti and Chicken recipe is quick and easy!  With straightforward steps and flavorful ingredients, you can whip up a comforting, one-pan meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or oven-safe pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked. Lift the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli: In the same pan, add the ziti pasta and broccoli. Add just enough water to cover the pasta and broccoli. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is tender.
4. Drain and Combine: Drain any excess water from the pan. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and add the creamy sauce ingredients: garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the sauce is heated through and the cheese is fully melted.
5. Bake the Dish: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and the dish is heated thoroughly.
6. Serve: Serve the Broccoli Ziti and Chicken hot. Top with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor.

By following these easy steps, you’ll create a mouthwatering Broccoli Ziti and Chicken dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Enjoy the tender chicken, perfectly al dente pasta, and broccoli, all coated in a rich and creamy sauce.

Creating the Perfect Creamy Sauce

The secret to the creamy sauce in your Broccoli Ziti and Chicken lies in a smart technique: combining the natural starch from pasta water with non-fat milk. This creates a velvety texture, giving you a rich, satisfying sauce without adding extra calories.

Achieving Creaminess Without Heavy Cream

To create the perfect creamy sauce, set aside a cup of pasta water before draining the ziti. The starches in the water help thicken the sauce. Combine this water with non-fat milk to form a smooth, creamy base.

Incorporating grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth of flavor. Using pasta water in the sauce creates a light yet creamy texture, offering the richness of a traditional cream sauce with fewer calories.

Sauce Consistency Tips

Perfecting the sauce is all about balance. Gradually add pasta water and milk, stirring continuously, until it reaches a creamy consistency. If the sauce is too thick, mix in a little more water. If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Using this technique, you can create a light cream sauce that clings perfectly to your Broccoli Ziti and Chicken. The key is balancing the pasta water and milk to achieve the ideal creaminess and flavor.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

Crafting a delicious Broccoli Ziti and Chicken dish begins with perfectly cooked chicken. Achieving a juicy, tender texture depends on using the right cooking techniques and paying close attention to the process.

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly and stay tender. Season them generously with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to infuse the chicken with rich, flavorful goodness.

Next, sauté the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until it forms a golden-brown crust. This locks in the juices and boosts the flavor. Be sure not to overcook it—the chicken should be cooked through but still tender and moist.

Once the chicken is perfectly seared, set it aside as you prepare the rest of the Broccoli Ziti and Chicken ingredients. This helps keep the chicken tender and prevents it from drying out when combined with the pasta and sauce.

With these straightforward protein preparation tips, you’ll achieve perfectly juicy chicken breasts that elevate the creamy pasta and crisp broccoli in this comforting one-pan dish.

Vegetable Preparation and Cooking

To create a flavorful vegetable-packed entrée, proper broccoli preparation is key. By following a few simple steps, you can keep your broccoli bright green and crisp-tender, making it a perfect complement to the rich and creamy chicken ziti.

Cutting and Sizing Broccoli

Start by cutting the broccoli into small, evenly sized florets, about 1 inch each. This ensures they cook evenly and at the same pace as the pasta, staying tender without becoming mushy.

Maintaining Bright Green Color

To keep the broccoli vibrant green, add it to the boiling pasta water during the last few minutes of cooking. This brief cooking time ensures it becomes crisp-tender without overcooking. Once done, immediately rinse the broccoli under cold water to stop the cooking process and enhance its bright color.

By taking care to properly prepare and cook the broccoli, you’ll create a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious—a true treat for your senses.

Storage and Meal Prep Options

Maximize the convenience of this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake by mastering meal prep and storage. With a few simple tips, you can save time and enjoy a fresh, delicious dish for days.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For extended storage, freeze the dish for up to three months. When reheating, stir in a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy texture.

Meal Prep Tips

• Cook the broccoli separately and stir it in just before serving to keep it fresh, vibrant, and perfectly green.
• Prepare the pasta bake ahead of time and portion it into individual servings for quick, hassle-free meals throughout the week.
• Store leftovers in glass or airtight containers to maintain freshness and flavor.

Mastering storage and meal prep ensures you can enjoy this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake anytime. It’s a simple, comforting dish that makes your busy life a little easier.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

The Broccoli Ziti and Chicken recipe is wonderfully versatile. Customize it by adding extra vegetables or swapping in different proteins to suit your taste and dietary preferences. It’s all about making it your own!

Adding Extra Vegetables

Looking to add more veggies? Spinach, peas, or bell peppers are excellent options. They not only enhance the dish’s nutritional value but also bring a delightful crunch and flavor. Just be sure to cook them properly to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Protein Alternatives

Looking to switch it up? Try swapping the chicken for Italian sausage—the rich flavors of the sausage complement the creamy sauce and broccoli beautifully. Alternatively, for a faster option, you can use rotisserie chicken to save time without compromising on taste.

For a gluten-free version, simply replace the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish without any concerns about gluten.

The best part of this recipe is making it your own. Play around with various ingredients and discover what flavors you enjoy the most. There are endless possibilities to adapt it—add more veggies, switch up the protein, and get creative!

Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be an adventure with its share of challenges. To perfect your Broccoli Ziti and Chicken, avoid common mistakes that can affect the dish. These helpful tips will ensure your pasta is perfectly cooked and your chicken is handled just right.

A common mistake is overcooking the pasta or broccoli, which can make them mushy. To prevent this, make sure to monitor the cooking time carefully.  Also, remember to reserve some pasta water—it’s essential for creating a creamy texture in the sauce.

When cooking chicken, make sure to cut it into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking. Uneven pieces can result in some parts being overcooked while others remain undercooked. Take the time to slice the chicken properly for the best texture.

Don’t use pre-grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts better and brings a richer, more flavorful taste. This simple kitchen trick can elevate your dish. Keep these tips in mind to create a delicious Broccoli Ziti and Chicken without the hassle.

Print Recipe

The Best Broccoli Ziti and Chicken

Discover the ultimate broccoli ziti and chicken recipe! A flavorful, veggie-packed dish perfect for healthy meals, easy dinners, and family-friendly comfort.

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time25 minutes mins

Total Time40 minutes mins

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American, Italian

Keyword: broccoli ziti and chicken, chicken casserole, Comfort Food, easy dinners

Servings: 6

Calories: 450kcal

Author: Emily

Ingredients

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (1 pound)

• Tender and lean protein perfect for sautéing, grilling, or baking.
• Can be seasoned to complement the flavors of the dish.
• Cut into bite-sized pieces or thin strips for even cooking and easy incorporation into the pasta.

Broccoli Florets (3 cups, about 1 pound)

• Fresh vibrant green florets that add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor.
• A nutritious addition rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber.
• Can be steamed roasted, or blanched to maintain a bright green color and crisp-tender texture.

Dried Whole Wheat Penne Pasta (8-12 ounces)

• A hearty and wholesome pasta option made with whole grains for added fiber and nutrients.
• Its ridged surface is ideal for clinging to creamy or light sauces.
• A versatile pasta shape that pairs well with vegetables and proteins for a balanced dish.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

Prepare the Broccoli

• In the last 3-4 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta. This will blanch the broccoli, making it tender and vibrant. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

• While the pasta cooks, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and optional spices like garlic powder or paprika.
• Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Combine Everything

• In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil or butter. Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli in the skillet, stirring gently to coat. Add the sliced chicken back to the skillet.
• If the dish feels dry, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired consistency.

Season and Serve

• Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs like red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, or freshly grated Parmesan.
• Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Vitamin C: 60% of Daily Value

Calcium: 15% of Daily Value

Conclusion

Broccoli ziti and chicken is a delightful fusion of flavor, nourishment, and convenience. Combining the richness of a classic chicken casserole with the vibrant freshness of a vegetable-packed entree, it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and health. This dish seamlessly fits into the repertoire of easy dinners, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Whether you’re planning wholesome healthy meals or exploring versatile meal prep ideas, this recipe stands out as a crowd-pleaser. Its warm, hearty appeal makes it a quintessential choice for family-friendly dishes and a reliable go-to for your comfort food cravings.

F&Q