Pin This comforting Maple Mustard Chicken Pasta Bake brings together tender chicken, bright broccoli, a creamy maple-mustard sauce, and a crispy golden topping. It is an all-in-one meal designed for easy weeknight dinners and always disappears fast at the table. Every bite is cozy, a little tangy and sweet, packed with kid and grown-up appeal.
I first made this dish on a chilly weeknight when we craved something comforting but different from our usual pasta rotation. Everyone went back for seconds and now it is firmly in our seasonal dinner line-up.
Ingredients
- Short pasta like penne fusilli or elbows: Pasta holds its shape and captures cheesy sauce make sure to cook just until al dente
- Cooked chicken breast either cubed or shredded: This is a great use for rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken for quick assembly
- Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen broccoli works Blanching or steaming first keeps them bright and tender
- Dijon mustard: Brings tangy backbone to the sauce Use a true Dijon for depth and not just yellow mustard
- Maple syrup or honey: Brings gentle sweetness Use pure maple syrup for best flavor
- Heavy cream: Makes a lush silky sauce go for full fat
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Lends sharpness and helps everything melt together Freshly grated cheese will melt most smoothly
- Salt and pepper: Key for balancing flavors Season gently at first you can always add more at the table
- Breadcrumbs preferably panko: Crunch creates a craveable topping Look for unseasoned panko for extra crunchiness
- Melted butter: Helps the topping turn perfectly brown Use real butter not margarine
- Parmesan cheese optional: Gives a nutty umami touch Freshly grated is best
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil pasta in well-salted water until it is just al dente This prevents overcooking in the oven Drain and toss very lightly with olive oil if you want to prevent sticking
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan whisk together Dijon mustard maple syrup and heavy cream Set over low heat stirring constantly until fully warmed and just starting to simmer Add shredded cheddar bit by bit stirring constantly so it melts smoothly Season with salt and pepper Taste and adjust for a punchy balanced flavor that is not too sweet
- Mix the Main Components:
- In a large mixing bowl combine cooked pasta cubed chicken and blanched broccoli Pour the warm maple mustard sauce over the top and toss gently everything should be coated and evenly mixed
- Layer the Dish:
- Pour the pasta mixture into a buttered baking dish Spread out evenly to ensure every bite gets saucy
- Make Topping and Finish Assembly:
- In a small bowl stir together breadcrumbs and melted butter Add Parmesan if using Sprinkle evenly across the top of the casserole for a crunchy golden layer
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking dish into a preheated 190 Celsius oven Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes Watch until the top is bubbling and breadcrumb topping is deeply golden Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for cleaner slices
Pin I always look forward to those crispy golden breadcrumbs along the edges they are the first thing my family fights over at dinner I also love adding a little extra Parmesan on top if I&m feeling indulgent
Storage Tips
Let the casserole cool completely before storing Cover tightly and refrigerate leftovers for up to three days For longer storage freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to two months Reheat gently in the oven or microwave adding a splash of extra cream or broth to keep it creamy
Ingredient Substitutions
Try roasted turkey instead of chicken in a pinch Any tender green like baby spinach or thawed frozen peas can stand in for broccoli If you do not have maple syrup honey works almost as well Use Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a cheese twist If gluten free use your favorite sturdy gluten free pasta and GF breadcrumbs
Serving Suggestions
Makes a hearty main dish on its own Serve with a crisp green salad and tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness For extra color toss roasted carrots or beets on the side This dish is also a potluck favorite because it travels and reheats so well
Cultural Context
Inspired by classic American comfort casseroles but with a northern twist thanks to the maple Dijon combo This flavor pairing nods to simple Midwestern suppers and the affinity for gooey baked pasta across the US Families have made similar bakes for generations making this a nostalgic choice with a subtle update
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring use blanched asparagus or spinach for a green lift Swap in roasted butternut squash or cauliflower in the fall Add a handful of fresh herbs like chives or parsley before baking for a summer finish
Success Stories
Every time I bake this for friends someone asks for the recipe Even picky eaters are swayed by the cheesy sauce and gentle hint of sweetness Leftovers are never wasted they are scooped up for work lunches or second rounds at dinner
Freezer Meal Conversion
Assemble everything but the topping and wrap tightly Freeze Bake straight from frozen at 180 Celsius until hot throughout then add topping and finish baking until golden This method is ideal for stocking up before busy weeks or new baby arrivals
Pin This pasta bake is hearty enough to be a meal on its own but feels extra special with a bright salad and good company. Enjoy leftovers for lunch & share the recipe with a friend!
Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute the broccoli with another vegetable?
Yes, you can use spinach, peas, or green beans for a delicious variation.
- → How can I make it spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle them over the finished bake.
- → What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta such as penne, fusilli, or elbows are ideal for holding the sauce and toppings.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for best texture.
- → Is there a quick way to prepare the chicken?
Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor to the dish.
- → Does this freeze well?
The baked pasta can be cooled, covered, and frozen. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.