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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can rival a creamy pasta bake. The combination of tender pasta, succulent chicken, and vibrant broccoli enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce is not only satisfying but also a delightful way to incorporate vegetables into your meal. This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering. With its easy preparation and comforting flavors, this dish is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Looking for the ultimate comfort food? Try this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake! It's a delightful combination of tender pasta, juicy chicken, and fresh broccoli enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With its gooey cheese topping and satisfying textures, it's sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Discover how to make this scrumptious meal today!
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces penne pasta

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups heavy cream

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prep the Pasta:

    - Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

      - Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

        Blanch the Broccoli:

          - If you are using fresh broccoli, bring a saucepan filled with salted water to a rolling boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and just tender. Drain the florets and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process. If you prefer using frozen broccoli, simply microwave it according to the package instructions until heated through.

            Cook the Sauce:

              - In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

                - Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring as it heats. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the onion powder, dried Italian herbs, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for around 5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.

                  Combine Ingredients:

                    - In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, blanched broccoli, and halved cherry tomatoes. Pour the creamy sauce over the pasta mixture and stir everything together until all components are evenly coated with the sauce.

                      Assemble the Bake:

                        - Transfer the combined pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top it with an even layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle the top with optional red pepper flakes.

                          Bake:

                            - Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The dish is ready when the top is bubbly and golden brown, creating a deliciously inviting crust.

                              Garnish and Serve:

                                - After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to set. Finally, garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

                                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

                                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta bake directly from the dish for a rustic feel, or plate individually and garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an elegant touch. Pair it with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal!