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When it comes to weeknight meals that bring the family together, few dishes can rival the comforting allure of a pasta bake. The Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a quintessential example of this genre, combining tender pasta, succulent chicken, and vibrant broccoli in a luscious cream sauce. This recipe embodies everything we love about home-cooked meals: it’s hearty, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious. Perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends, this dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly versatile, allowing for variations that can suit any occasion or personal preference.

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Dive into the comforting world of creamy goodness with this delicious Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty dish combines tender penne pasta, succulent chicken, and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a rich cream sauce. It's a family favorite that's both satisfying and nutritious, making mealtime a breeze. Follow the simple steps to create a pasta bake that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the blend of flavors and textures in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

300g (10.5 oz) penne pasta

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup grated cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until it's al dente. In the final 2-3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.

      Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, or until the garlic is fragrant.

        Prepare the Cream Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring well to combine. Add the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, along with the red pepper flakes if you’d like some heat. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, letting it bubble for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

          Incorporate the Cheeses: Add the grated cheddar and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until the cheeses are melted and fully incorporated. Adjust seasoning to taste if necessary.

            Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta and broccoli with the creamy cheese sauce. Gently fold in the cooked chicken until all ingredients are well-coated with the sauce.

              Bake the Dish: Pour the creamy pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese generously over the top. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and has turned a lovely golden color.

                Garnish Before Serving: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a vibrant touch.

                  Serve and Enjoy: Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy the comforting flavors of this creamy chicken and broccoli pasta bake!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 50 min | 6-8 servings

                      Presentation Tips:

                        For an appealing presentation, serve the pasta bake in individual portions topped with additional parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for color. Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.