Baked Penne with Chicken, Broccoli & Smoked Mozzarella
Baked Penne with Chicken, Broccoli & Smoked Mozzarella (Creamy, Cheesy & Comforting!)
If you love creamy baked pastas but want something with a little more depth and freshness, this Baked Penne with Chicken, Broccoli & Smoked Mozzarella is going to be your new favorite. It brings together tender pasta, juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich smoky cheese into one warm, comforting dish. It’s the perfect balance of cozy and flavorful, just like dishes such as Lemony Ricotta Spaghetti that highlight freshness with creaminess.
Whether you need a family-friendly dinner or a make-ahead meal, this pasta bake never disappoints. It’s easy, satisfying, and always a hit at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Penne
- Creamy but not heavy
- Fresh broccoli adds color, texture, and nutrition
- Smoked mozzarella gives a gourmet, restaurant-style flavor
- Easy to make ahead
- Great for meal prep
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Perfect comfort food like Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells but with a heartier twist
Baked Penne with Chicken, Broccoli & Smoked Mozzarella
Notes
- 1 ½ lbs broccoli, florets cut into 1-inch pieces
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 medium onion, minced
- 6 garlic cloves, finely minced or pressed
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 oz smoked mozzarella, shredded
- 8 oz jar oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- ¾ cup bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs with melted butter and set aside.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring the oven rack is in the center.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tbsp salt and the broccoli. Cook for 1 minute until bright green, then remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Return the water to a boil and cook the penne 1–2 minutes less than al dente, as it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain, toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, and set aside.
- Wipe the pot dry and heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
- Stir in the garlic and thyme, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the flour, salt, and pepper, stirring constantly for 1 minute until golden.
- Gradually whisk in the broth and cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and smoked mozzarella until well combined.
- Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the sauce, stirring to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with the breadcrumb topping.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the breadcrumbs are lightly golden.
- Serve immediately with a side of crusty bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
Calories: 448kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 78mg | Sodium: 653mg | Potassium: 568mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1384IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 2mgPinterest
FAQs
Can I substitute smoked mozzarella?
Yes! Smoked gouda, fontina, or regular mozzarella all work well. Smoked cheese gives the dish its signature depth.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace chicken with mushrooms, spinach, or extra broccoli, and use veggie broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes add it directly to the boiling pasta during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.
Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Both work! Just avoid overcooking gluten-free pasta since it softens quickly.
Can I make it lighter?
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half, but note the sauce will be slightly less rich.
Conclusion
This Baked Penne with Chicken, Broccoli & Smoked Mozzarella is everything a great pasta bake should be creamy, smoky, cheesy, veggie-packed, and irresistibly comforting. It’s the kind of dish that brings people to the table, warms the home, and becomes part of your regular meal rotation.
Make it for weeknights, gatherings, or anytime you crave a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner. One bite, and you’ll understand why this pasta bake is a keeper.
