**Main Ingredients:**
– 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
– 1 medium head of broccoli (cut into florets)
– 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rotini works best)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion (diced)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 ½ cups heavy cream
– 1 ½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
– 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
**Optional Additions:**
– 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for a tangy kick)
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
– Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
**Tips for Success**
1. **Don’t Overcook the Broccoli:** When cooking the broccoli, blanch it for just 2-3 minutes to preserve its vibrant color and nutritional value. Overcooking can make it mushy.
2. **Choose the Right Pasta:** Pick pasta shapes that can hold sauce well, such as penne, rotini, or shells. Avoid delicate pasta like spaghetti, which may break down during baking.
3. **Use Fresh Chicken:** Shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken makes this recipe quicker and adds flavor.
4. **Cheese Varieties:** While cheddar and Parmesan are classic, you can experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or gouda for different flavor profiles.
5. **Adjust Seasoning:** Taste the sauce before baking and adjust seasoning as necessary. Don’t forget to season each layer (pasta, chicken, sauce) as you go.
**Instructions**
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. **Cook the Pasta**: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. **Prepare the Broccoli**: In the same pot, blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
4. **Sauté the Aromatics**: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
5. **Make the Creamy Sauce**: Add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir in the Dijon mustard (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. **Combine Ingredients**: Add the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli into the skillet. Stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese melts and everything is evenly coated.
7. **Bake**: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with a little more shredded cheese (if desired) and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. **Garnish and Serve**: Remove from the oven and let the pasta bake sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
**Description**
This **Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake** is a satisfying dish that balances protein, vegetables, and comforting carbs in a rich, velvety sauce. The chicken provides lean protein, the broccoli contributes fiber and vitamins, and the pasta adds a hearty element to this baked casserole. The cheesy sauce binds it all together, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and nutritious. It’s a wonderful weeknight dinner option or a make-ahead meal for busy days.
**Nutritional Information (Per Serving)**
– **Calories**: ~400-450 kcal
– **Protein**: ~35g
– **Carbohydrates**: ~40g
– **Fiber**: ~3g
– **Fat**: ~20g
– **Saturated Fat**: ~10g
– **Cholesterol**: ~75mg
– **Sodium**: ~600mg
– **Vitamin A**: 15% DV
– **Vitamin C**: 50% DV
– **Calcium**: 20% DV
– **Iron**: 10% DV
(Note: Nutritional information can vary based on portion size and ingredient choices.)
**Conclusion**
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake is a delicious and balanced meal that offers comfort without compromising on nutrition. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for satisfying a variety of tastes. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, this dish ticks all the boxes for flavor, texture, and convenience.
**Recommendation**
For a healthier alternative, consider using whole-grain pasta for added fiber or a lighter version by substituting some of the heavy cream with a lower-fat option like Greek yogurt or a milk-based sauce. Add more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost the nutritional profile. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
**Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
By using lean chicken, incorporating plenty of vegetables, and controlling the amount of cheese and cream, this pasta bake offers the best of both worlds: indulgence and nourishment. It’s a great way to enjoy a creamy, cheesy meal while making conscious choices about the ingredients you use!p
