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What’s great about this recipe

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a family favorite! It combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese into a delightful dish that everyone will love. This recipe is not only scrumptious but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal, which means less cleanup for you!

How to make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Ingredients:

8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
1 lb chicken breast, cooked and diced
2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
1 tablespoon parsley (for garnish)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, diced chicken, steamed broccoli, and shredded cheese.
In a separate bowl, combine heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the pasta and chicken mixture, stirring to coat evenly.
Transfer everything to a greased baking dish.
If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish with parsley before serving.

How to serve Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Serve this delicious dish hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Be sure to have extra cheese at the table, as some may want to sprinkle more on top!

How to store Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to cover it well. When reheating, add a little extra cream or broth for moisture.

Tips to make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

For added flavor, try seasoning the chicken with herbs like Italian seasoning or thyme before baking.
Feel free to substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation, as it’s already cooked and seasoned!

Variations

You can easily customize this recipe! For a healthier version, use whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese. If you want a kick of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the cream mixture.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli before adding it to the mixture.

3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk for a lighter version.