Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake

Introduction

Welcome to this delicious recipe for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for entertaining guests. With a creamy sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli, it’s a complete meal that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups of pasta (any shape you prefer)

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded

1 head of broccoli, cut into florets

1 cup of heavy cream

1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

1 clove of garlic, minced

1 teaspoon of dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Follow these steps to make the Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake:

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the chicken and broccoli

In a separate pan, cook the chicken breasts until no longer pink in the center. Shred the cooked chicken using two forks. Steam the broccoli florets until tender.

Step 3: Make the creamy sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine the ingredients

In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and steamed broccoli. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.

Step 5: Bake the pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Variations

There are several ways to customize this recipe to suit your preferences:

Add cooked bacon or pancetta for extra flavor

Replace the chicken with cooked sausage or shrimp

Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella

Add diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of freshness

Tips

Here are some tips to help you make the perfect Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake:

Don’t overcook the pasta – it will continue to cook in the oven

Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding

Steam the broccoli until it is just tender, not mushy

Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms

For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs and grated cheese on top before baking

Conclusion

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake is a versatile and delicious dish that is sure to please everyone. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is a winner. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli, it’s a complete meal that is both comforting and satisfying. Give it a try and enjoy!

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work well in this recipe.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the dish up until step 4 and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake it, simply pour the sauce over the mixture and proceed with the remaining steps.