Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake: A Delicious and Comforting Dish
Introduction
Are you looking for a hearty and comforting dish that the whole family will love? Look no further than this creamy broccoli and chicken pasta bake! Packed with tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and topped with a cheesy cream sauce, this dish is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want a satisfying meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the pasta:
- 1 pound (450g) penne or any pasta of your choice
- 2 cups (400g) cooked chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups (300g) broccoli florets, blanched
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (100g) grated mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Steps
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and 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 pot, poach the chicken breast in chicken broth until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the broth and let it cool before dicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the creamy sauce
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Whisk in the heavy cream, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
Step 4: Assemble and bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, blanched broccoli, and creamy sauce. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Sprinkle additional grated cheese on top if desired.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Variations
This recipe is highly adaptable, and you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:
Vegetarian Option:
If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add additional vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
Spicy Twist:
If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce. This will give the dish a delicious spicy kick.
Gluten-Free:
If you follow a gluten-free diet, use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta. Ensure that the chicken broth and all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Tips
- For added flavor, you can season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and any other spices of your choice before poaching it in chicken broth.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter or olive oil over the pasta before baking.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Parmesan, to give the dish a unique flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
The creamy broccoli and chicken pasta bake is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich and cheesy cream sauce. With its comforting flavors and satisfying textures, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious and comforting meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if fresh is not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as it may take a bit longer to heat through.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer or have on hand. Penne works well in this recipe, but you can also use rigatoni, fusilli, or macaroni.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. However, keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
