ElfyThe Comforting Classic: Pasta Bake with Broccoli and Chicken
If you’re on the hunt for a simple, yet delicious meal, look no further than the classic Pasta Bake with Broccoli and Chicken.
This dish is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a nourishing option for your weeknight dinners.
Pasta Bake With Broccoli and Chicken
| Prep time | Cook Time | Rest Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 min | 40 min | 5 min | 65 min |
Pasta bakes, or casseroles,
have a rich history that dates back to the ancient Greeks and Romans, who were known to mix pasta with various ingredients and bake them. The concept spread throughout Europe and evolved, particularly in Italy, where pasta al forno (oven-baked pasta) became a staple.
The combination of pasta with chicken and broccoli is a modern twist that adds a healthy and hearty element to this traditional dish.
The beauty of a Pasta Bake with Broccoli and Chicken
lies in its simplicity. It brings together tender pieces of chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce.
This recipe is perfect for those busy nights when you need a quick, yet satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
What makes this dish stand out is the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
The broccoli adds a nice crunch and a burst of green goodness, while the chicken provides protein that makes the dish filling and nutritious. The creamy sauce binds everything together, making each bite a delightful experience.
Moreover,
this Pasta Bake with Broccoli and Chicken is versatile. You can customize it by adding other vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, or switching the type of cheese to suit your preferences.
It’s a great way to use up leftovers or incorporate whatever ingredients you have on hand.
This dish also freezes well, so you can make a large batch and save some for later. Just pop it in the oven, and you have a homemade meal ready to go, perfect for those days when you don’t feel like cooking from scratch.
The Pasta Bake with Broccoli and Chicken
is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that carries a bit of culinary history. It’s nutritious, versatile, and sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone who loves to cook, this recipe is a must-try.
So next time you’re thinking about dinner, consider whipping up this classic pasta bake and enjoy a taste of tradition with a modern twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
Set your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add the minced garlic and chopped onion.
Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the broccoli florets and cook for another 5 minutes until tender.
Reduce the heat to low.
Add the cream cheese and milk to the pan, stirring until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano.
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and half of the cheddar cheese to the pan.
Mix until everything is well coated with the sauce.
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Let the pasta bake rest for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy, Good Appetite!
