Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake
Indulge in a heartwarming and satisfying dish that perfectly balances flavor and nutrition with this delightful Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake. This recipe, designed for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and hearty penne pasta enveloped in a creamy, savory sauce. Ready in just 45 minutes, this dish will become a staple in your household, providing a wholesome meal that everyone will love.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 626.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 35.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 17.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 144.6 mg |
| Sodium | 778 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 36.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.2 g |
| Sugars | 4.2 g |
| Protein | 40.8 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 3 cups | Penne pasta |
| 3 cups | Broccoli (steamed) |
| 3 tbsp | Butter |
| 1 medium | Onion (chopped) |
| 3 cloves | Garlic (minced) |
| 3 tbsp | All-purpose flour |
| 1 tsp | Dried thyme |
| 1 ½ cups | Chicken broth |
| 1 ½ cups | Half-and-half cream |
| 1 cup | Milk |
| ¼ cup | Parmesan cheese (grated) |
| 1 | Bay leaf |
| 1 lb | Chicken breast (cooked and cubed) |
| ⅛ tsp | Ground nutmeg |
| 2 tbsp | Fresh parsley (chopped) |
| ½ cup | Cottage cheese |
| ¼ cup | Parmesan cheese (grated, for topping) |
Preparation Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), creating a warm environment for baking your pasta dish.
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Prepare the Baking Dish: Generously butter an 11 x 8-inch baking pan or casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
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Combine Pasta and Broccoli: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the steamed broccoli and cooked penne pasta until well combined, setting aside the vibrant mixture for later.
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Make the Sauce: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and flour, cooking for an additional minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
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Create the Creamy Base: Gradually whisk in the dried thyme, followed by the chicken broth and half-and-half cream (or milk). Add the bay leaf and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, then bring the mixture to a medium boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 6-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
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Cook the Chicken: Once the sauce has thickened, add the cubed chicken breast to the saucepan, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is just barely cooked through. Be careful not to overcook it, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
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Season the Mixture: Remove the saucepan from the heat and season with salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg to taste. This will enhance the flavors and bring warmth to the dish.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the creamy chicken mixture to the bowl with the pasta and broccoli. Fold in the chopped fresh parsley, mixing until all ingredients are evenly coated with the luscious sauce.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the combined pasta, chicken, and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
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Add Cheese Toppings: Dot the top with cottage cheese, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for a crispy, cheesy crust when baked.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the mixture is heated through and the top is lightly golden brown, creating a delicious contrast in textures.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake can be enjoyed as a main course, paired with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your meal experience, consider serving the Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or your favorite dressing. Additionally, a warm loaf of garlic bread would complement the dish beautifully, allowing you to savor every creamy bite. For those looking to add a refreshing touch, a side of seasonal fruit or a simple fruit salad can balance the richness of the bake.
Conclusion
This Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake is a perfect embodiment of comfort food, bringing together wholesome ingredients in a way that is both delicious and nourishing. With its easy preparation and delightful flavor, this recipe from lovewithrecipes.com is destined to become a family favorite, ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Dive into this creamy, cheesy delight, and share the love of home-cooked meals with those you cherish.
Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of creating and sharing this comforting Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake with your loved ones, and savor the delightful moments that come with every delicious bite!
