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- 2 cups uncooked penne pasta - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced - 2 cups broccoli florets - 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cups creamy cheese sauce (store-bought or homemade) - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - Salt to taste - Optional: 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping - Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Discover the joy of comfort food with Cheesy Bliss Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Bake! This quick and easy recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's a family favorite that offers delicious flavors and essential nutrients. With customizable ingredients to fit various tastes, this satisfying dish will quickly become a staple in your home, bringing everyone together around the dinner table.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups uncooked penne pasta

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for a crunchy topping)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's ready for baking.

    Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta, cooking it according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta and set aside.

      Sauté Broccoli: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are just tender yet vibrantly green. Remove the skillet from heat.

        Prepare Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and smooth.

          Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and sautéed broccoli. Add half of the grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture. Pour the prepared cream sauce over the pasta mix, gently tossing everything together until evenly coated.

            Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and pour the combined pasta mixture into it. Spread it out evenly for even baking.

              Add Cheese Topping: Evenly sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses on top of the pasta bake. If you desire a crunchy texture, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.

                Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

                  Garnish and Serve: After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy chicken and broccoli pasta bake!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 6-8