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Cheesy Delight Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Bake is a mouthwatering dish that combines the comforting flavors of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli with perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe has gained popularity among families looking for a quick and satisfying meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters. The appeal of this dish lies in its ability to bring together wholesome ingredients into a single, hearty bake, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Looking for a quick, hearty meal to please the whole family? Try the Cheesy Delight Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Bake! This delicious dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese with perfectly cooked penne pasta, creating the ultimate comfort food. With easy-to-follow steps, you'll learn how to prepare fresh ingredients, create a creamy sauce, and bake it all to golden perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe is sure to delight everyone at the table!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes

2 cups broccoli florets (can be fresh or frozen)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside in a large mixing bowl.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Incorporate the minced garlic into the skillet and continue cooking for another minute until fragrant.

      Cook Chicken and Broccoli: Add the cubed chicken to the skillet, seasoning it with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and no longer pink, approximately 6-8 minutes. Once the chicken is done, add the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender yet still crisp.

        Combine Ingredients: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes to the chicken and vegetable mixture. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, add half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and all of the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until everything is melted and well combined.

          Mix with Pasta: Pour the creamy chicken and broccoli mixture over the cooked penne pasta in the mixing bowl. Gently stir to combine, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the delicious sauce.

            Bake the Dish: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish (or similar). Evenly sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

              Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Savor your creamy and cheesy delight!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 4-6 servings

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta bake straight from the dish or portion it onto individual plates. Garnish each serving with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for an elegant touch.