Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake

Introduction: This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake is a delicious, comforting dish perfect for any family dinner. Combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a creamy cheese sauce, it’s baked to perfection with a golden top. This recipe is not only hearty and filling but also includes a good portion of vegetables, making it a balanced meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pasta (such as penne or shells)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2

cups milk

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
2. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain well and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until onion is translucent. Sprinkle with flour and stir to combine. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and basil.
4. Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, and diced chicken. Pour the creamy sauce over the top and stir to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5. Bake: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve: Remove from oven and let sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Conclusion: This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake is a true comfort food delight, perfect for a cozy night in or a festive family gathering. The combination of creamy sauce, tender pasta, and nutritious broccoli makes it a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Its ease of preparation and delicious flavors make it a must-try for any home cook looking for a reliable and hearty dish.