Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake: Never Dry, Always Creamy!

There’s nothing more frustrating than pulling a beautiful pasta bake from the oven, only to find it’s a dry, sad mess. I’ve been there, and I’ve cracked the code to ensure that never happens again with my ultimate Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake.

This isn’t just another dinner; it’s a guaranteed showstopper: incredibly moist, packed with flavor, and boasting that irresistible golden-brown cheese topping your family will adore.

Your New Favorite Weeknight Hero: The Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake

Say Goodbye to Dry Pasta Bakes Forever

The secret to an exceptionally moist pasta bake lies in how you treat the pasta before it even hits the oven. Our unique par-cooking method ensures the penne finishes cooking in the luscious sauce, absorbing all that creamy goodness without ever becoming dry or mushy.

Combined with a smart baking technique, this Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake retains every drop of moisture, delivering perfectly tender pasta in a rich, velvety sauce every single time.

A Symphony of Flavor and Texture in Every Bite

This dish is a masterclass in balance. You’ll find tender penne pasta coated in a luxurious, cheesy sauce, perfectly complemented by savory diced chicken and crisp-tender vegetables.

The golden, bubbly cheese topping adds an irresistible finish, creating a multi-textured experience that delights the palate from the first forkful to the last.

Packed with Protein and Vibrant Veggies for a Wholesome Meal

Beyond its incredible taste, this Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake is also incredibly wholesome and family-friendly. It’s loaded with lean protein from the chicken and a generous helping of vibrant mixed vegetables.

This ensures a well-rounded meal that feels indulgent yet provides essential nutrients, making it a perfect weeknight solution for busy families.

Gear Up for Deliciousness: Essential Tools for Your Penne Bake Success

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Indispensable for cooking pasta and building the flavorful sauce.

• 9×13 Inch Baking Dish: The perfect vessel for assembling and baking your family-sized masterpiece.

• Whisk: Your secret weapon for achieving a perfectly smooth, lump-free cheese sauce.

• Sturdy Spoon or Spatula: For efficient stirring and gentle combining of all your delicious ingredients.

• Measuring Cups & Spoons: For precise ingredient portions, ensuring consistent results every time.

Understanding Your Ingredients: Key Components for Flavor & Texture

The Pasta Choice: Why Penne Excels in a Bake

Penne pasta is an excellent choice for baked dishes due to its tubular shape and ridged surface. These features allow it to perfectly capture and hold onto the rich, creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Its sturdy structure also prevents it from becoming mushy during the par-cooking and baking processes, maintaining a satisfying chew.

Crafting the Ultimate Creamy Sauce Base

Our sauce begins with a foundation of olive oil, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic, which sauté to create an aromatic base that infuses the entire dish with savory depth. The all-purpose flour forms a crucial roux, thickening the sauce to a luxurious consistency.

Gradually whisking in milk and chicken broth creates a velvety smooth liquid base, while Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper add a classic, comforting flavor profile that ties everything together perfectly.

Protein & Garden Freshness: Chicken and Mixed Vegetables

Cooked, diced chicken breast provides lean protein and hearty substance, making this baked penne a complete meal. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover chicken or a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for extra convenience.

Frozen mixed vegetables offer a burst of color and nutrition, easily adding garden freshness. You can effortlessly adapt this by swapping in fresh seasonal vegetables like broccoli florets or diced bell peppers.

The Irresistible Golden, Bubbly Cheese Topping

The combination of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese is what makes this bake truly irresistible. Mozzarella delivers that coveted gooey, stretchy texture, while cheddar provides a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Together, they melt into a golden-brown, bubbly crust that signals pure comfort food perfection for your Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake.

Printable Recipe: Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake Ingredients List

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for pasta water
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 3 cups frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, green beans, corn, peas), thawed
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Your Path to Perfect Penne Bake: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. The Game-Changing Pasta Prep: Preventing Dryness

   • Boil & Par-Cook Penne:

     Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook for exactly HALF the time indicated on the package directions for al dente.

     For example, if the package suggests 10-12 minutes for al dente, cook your penne for 5-6 minutes. The pasta will be very firm, almost hard, at this stage.

     Drain immediately and rinse thoroughly with cold water to halt the cooking process. This crucial ‘anti-dryness’ step prevents your pasta from turning mushy or absorbing too much liquid during baking, ensuring your Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake remains incredibly moist and perfectly tender!

2. Building the Flavorful Foundation

   • Sauté Aromatics:

     While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it has softened and become translucent, about 5 minutes.

     Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for just 1 minute more, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as this can turn bitter.

3. Crafting the Velvety Cheese Sauce

   • Create the Roux:

     Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the softened onion and garlic mixture. Cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute, allowing the flour to cook out and create a basic roux. This forms the essential thickening agent for our creamy sauce.

   • Whisk in Liquids & Thicken:

     Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, a little at a time, ensuring a smooth consistency with no lumps. Continue whisking as you bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

     Keep stirring constantly until the sauce thickens to a pourable but creamy consistency, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.

   • Season & Incorporate Cheese and Veggies:

     Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the 1/2 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the thawed mixed vegetables and stir to combine evenly.

     Return the pot to medium-low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, just to ensure the vegetables are heated through and tender-crisp.

     Finally, remove from heat again and stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese until fully melted and smoothly incorporated into the sauce, creating a rich, cheesy base.

4. Assembling Your Cheesy Masterpiece

   • Combine Chicken & Pasta:

     Add the diced cooked chicken to the creamy sauce mixture. Then, gently add the par-cooked and drained penne pasta.

     Toss everything thoroughly and gently to combine, ensuring every single piece of pasta is generously coated in that luscious, cheesy sauce.

   • Transfer & Top with Cheese:

     Carefully pour the entire penne bake mixture evenly into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out so there are no large gaps.

     Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This layer will create a beautiful golden-brown crust.

5. The Moist-Bake Method: Oven Perfection

   • Cover & Initial Bake:

     Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it into your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 minutes.

     This critical “moist-bake” method traps steam and moisture, allowing the par-cooked pasta to finish cooking perfectly in the sauce without drying out, resulting in an exceptionally moist and tender Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake.

   • Uncover & Golden Finish:

     Carefully remove the aluminum foil. Continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese topping is beautifully golden brown and bubbly.

   • Rest & Serve:

     Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the sauce to set slightly, preventing it from being too runny when you scoop, ensuring every serving is perfectly creamy and cohesive.

     Enjoy your perfectly creamy, never dry Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake!

Chef’s Secrets: Elevating Your Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake

Speed Up Prep with Pre-Cooked Chicken

To significantly reduce prep time for this delightful baked penne, consider using a store-bought rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or quickly pan-cook some chicken breasts in advance. Having your protein ready makes assembly a breeze.

Vegetable Variations for Endless Customization

While the mixed frozen vegetables are incredibly convenient, feel free to customize. Add fresh broccoli florets, diced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or a handful of fresh spinach during the sauce-making step.

Ensure any fresh, harder vegetables are cooked until tender-crisp before combining to ensure they soften adequately in the bake.

Mastering the Cheese Blend for Optimal Flavor

Don’t be afraid to experiment with your cheese blend to explore different flavor profiles for your pasta bake. Gruyere offers a nutty complexity, Fontina provides exceptional melt and richness, and Colby Jack gives a milder, buttery note.

Always shred your own cheese from blocks; pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting.

Achieving That Perfect Golden Crust

For an extra-crispy, beautifully caramelized cheese topping, consider sprinkling a small amount of Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella and cheddar before the final uncovered bake. If your cheese isn’t browning sufficiently, a quick 1-2 minute broil at the very end will achieve that gorgeous golden hue.

Keep a close eye on it under the broiler, as cheese can go from perfectly golden to burnt in moments.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting for Your Penne Bake

“My Penne Bake is Still Dry!”

Ensure your pasta was truly only half-cooked during the initial boil; overcooking at this stage can lead to it absorbing too much liquid during baking. Always cover your baking dish tightly with foil for the first baking phase to trap essential moisture.

Also, avoid over-baking uncovered, which can evaporate too much liquid. A slightly under-baked appearance upon foil removal is ideal.

“The Sauce is Too Thin/Too Thick!”

If your sauce is too thin, return it to the stovetop and simmer gently for a few more minutes, stirring, to allow it to thicken further. For a quick fix, whisk together 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water, then stir this slurry into the simmering sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.

If the sauce becomes too thick, simply whisk in an extra splash of warm milk or low-sodium chicken broth, one tablespoon at a time, until it loosens to a perfect pourable creaminess.

“The Cheese Didn’t Brown Nicely”

To achieve that irresistible golden-brown and bubbly topping, ensure your oven is fully preheated to the correct temperature. If the cheese isn’t browning after the recommended uncovered baking time, you can briefly place the dish under a preheated broiler for 1-2 minutes.

Watch it very closely to prevent burning, as broilers work quickly.

Your Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake FAQs Answered

Can I use different types of pasta for this bake?

Absolutely! While penne is excellent, other sturdy, medium-sized pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or cavatappi work wonderfully in this creamy chicken pasta bake. Avoid very thin pastas like spaghetti or angel hair, as they tend to become mushy in baked dishes.

What if I don’t have chicken broth on hand?

No problem! You can substitute vegetable broth for a similar savory depth. In a pinch, water combined with an extra pinch of salt and a bouillon cube (if you have one) can also work. The milk provides most of the creamy richness, so the broth is flexible.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly for meal prep?

Yes, this Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake is fantastic for meal prep! You can bake the entire dish, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing for up to 3 months. Individual portions can also be frozen in airtight containers.

How long does leftover Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. This makes it perfect for delicious lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can fully assemble the bake up to 24 hours in advance. Cover the unbaked dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the initial covered baking time to account for the chilled temperature of the dish.

Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings

What to Serve Alongside Your Creamy Penne Bake

This rich and hearty Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.

Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, and steamed green beans or roasted asparagus add extra vibrant vegetables to your meal.

Storing Leftovers for Maximum Freshness

To keep your leftovers tasting their best, transfer any remaining Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake into airtight containers as soon as it has cooled sufficiently. Prompt refrigeration helps maintain freshness and food safety.

Proper storage ensures the flavors remain vibrant and the texture stays appealing for days.

Reheating for Continued Creamy Goodness

For individual portions, the microwave is your friend: reheat on medium power, covered, stirring halfway through until hot. For reheating the entire dish, cover it loosely with foil and bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through.

Adding a splash of milk or chicken broth before reheating can help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency and prevent any dryness.

Ready to Impress? Share Your Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake Masterpiece!

Now you’re equipped with all the chef’s secrets to create a truly exceptional Cheesy Chicken & Veggie Penne Bake that will earn rave reviews every time. Say goodbye to dry, lackluster pasta bakes and hello to a creamy, dreamy, flavor-packed dish that delights.

I encourage you to try this recipe, make it your own, and share your delicious results with me! Your family is going to love this new weeknight hero.