Easy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious, well-balanced meal that's easy to prepare? Look no further than the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole. This dish is perfect for home cooks, pasta lovers, and health-conscious eaters alike. It's a comforting meal that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta in a creamy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. Let's get started!

Ingredients List

To create this delightful casserole, you'll need the following fresh and healthy ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini work best)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried basil

Preparing the Chicken and Broccoli

1. Cook the Chicken:

• • Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme.
  • Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, until fully cooked.
  • Remove from the skillet and allow to cool slightly before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook the Broccoli:
  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
  • Drain and set aside.

  Making the Pasta

  1. Cook the Pasta:
  • In the same pot used for the broccoli, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt.
  • Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Drain the pasta and set aside.

  Assembling the Casserole

  1. Prepare the Sauce:
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In the same skillet used for the chicken, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
  • Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, remaining thyme, and basil. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
  2. Combine Ingredients:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, and sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
  3. Layer the Casserole:
  • Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish.
  • Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top.
  • Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining cheese.

  Baking the Casserole

  1. Bake the Casserole:
  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
  • Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

  Serving Suggestions

  This Chicken and Broccoli pastaasserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

  Conclusion

  The Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Casserole is a simple yet delicious meal that's perfect for any night of the week. It's packed with protein, vegetables, and comforting pasta, making it a well-rounded dish that everyone will love. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures. Bon appétit!