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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warmth and satisfaction of a creamy chicken and broccoli pasta bake. This delightful casserole brings together tender pasta, juicy chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious cheese sauce, creating a meal that is not only hearty but also deeply comforting. As families gather around the dinner table, this dish stands out as a go-to option for weeknight dinners or larger gatherings. Its appeal lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures: the creamy richness of the sauce, the savory undertones of chicken, the slight crunch of broccoli, and the delightful chewiness of pasta all come together harmoniously.

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this creamy chicken and broccoli pasta bake! This hearty casserole combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious cheese sauce for a satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. With easy preparation and a delightful balance of flavors and textures, this dish brings warmth and nostalgia to your table. Gather your family and enjoy the delicious experience of this timeless classic!

Ingredients
  

2 cups rotini or penne pasta

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets in the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

      Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

        Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

          Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add Italian seasoning and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Mix in half of the mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

            Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, chicken, and creamy sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

              Assemble the Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

                Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                  Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                      15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings