Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

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Introduction:
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or potluck. This casserole combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce, then bakes to bubbly perfection. It’s an easy and delicious way to get a balanced meal with protein, veggies, and carbs all in one dish.

Ingredients:

For the Pasta Bake:

  • 2 cups (200g) uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well)
  • 2 cups (300g) cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
  • 3 cups (300g) fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup (120g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (480ml) milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions:

  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)
  • 1/4 cup (30g) breadcrumbs for topping
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:

  • Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute until it forms a smooth paste.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  • Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

4. Assemble the Pasta Bake:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, chicken, and the cheese sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
  • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.

5. Add Toppings (Optional):

  • If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy topping.
  • Garnish with red pepper flakes for some added heat, if desired.

6. Bake the Casserole:

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

7. Serve:

  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips for Success:

  • Make sure to slightly undercook the pasta to avoid it becoming mushy when baked.
  • You can use rotisserie chicken to save time, or substitute with turkey or ham for a different flavor.
  • Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.

Nutritional Information:
(Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

  • Serving Size: 1/8 of the casserole
  • Calories: Approximately 350-400
  • Total Fat: Approximately 18-20g
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 10-12g
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 85-100mg
  • Sodium: Approximately 500-600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
  • Dietary Fiber: Approximately 2-3g
  • Sugars: Approximately 4-6g
  • Protein: Approximately 25-30g

Recommendation:
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a versatile dish that can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving. It’s perfect for meal prep and makes great leftovers. Pair it with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. This comforting casserole is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this delightful dish!

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