Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake
If you’re craving a cozy, indulgent dinner that combines the comforting flavors of pasta, tender chicken, and rich, creamy cheese, this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake is a must-try. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible pasta bake.
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Ingredients for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake
To create this luscious pasta bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pasta (penne or rotini) | 8 ounces (2 cups) |
| Cooked chicken (shredded/chopped) | 2 cups |
| Broccoli (fresh or frozen) | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1 cup + extra for topping |
| Parmesan cheese (shredded) | ½ cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Olive oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Italian seasoning | ½ teaspoon |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | ¼ teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake
1. Prepare Your Oven and Cook the Pasta
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking.
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Steam or Blanch the Broccoli
- For fresh broccoli: Steam or blanch the florets for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant green.
- For frozen broccoli: Thaw and drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Gradually add the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
4. Combine the Ingredients
- Add the cooked chicken and prepared broccoli to the creamy sauce, stirring well to coat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sauce mixture with the cooked pasta, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
5. Assemble the Pasta Bake
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the pasta mixture to the dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top for a golden, melty finish.
6. Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the pasta bake rest for a few minutes before serving.
7. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
