Chicken And Broccoli Pasta Bake

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family will love, then this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is the perfect dish for you. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite in no time. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner at home or simply looking to add a flavorful twist to your weeknight meals, this hearty pasta bake is a crowd-pleaser that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, and sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and cook, stirring constantly, for another 1-2 minutes.

5. Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

6. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.

7. Add the cooked chicken and broccoli florets to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine.

8. In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked penne pasta with the chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce mixture, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.

9. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta.

10. Bake the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pasta bake is heated through.

11. Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

12. Serve the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this home-cooked meal with your loved ones.

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a hearty and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner idea or a crowd-pleasing meal to share with family and friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli in every bite of this comforting pasta bake.