Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake: A Deliciously Comforting Meal When it comes to comfort food that pleases the entire family, few dishes rival the Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake. This delightful casserole combines tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and al dente pasta, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy pesto sauce. Whether you're looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a dish to impress at a potluck, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients
To create this delectable dish, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups of cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
3 cups of broccoli florets
12 oz of pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
1 cup of basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup of heavy cream
1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
2 cloves of garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1/4 cup of breadcrumbs (optional for a crispy topping)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is just shy of al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Prepare the Broccoli
While the pasta is cooking, steam the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until they are crisp-tender. You can do this in a steamer basket over boiling water or in the microwave with a bit of water. Drain any excess water and set the broccoli aside.

4. Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cooked chicken to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the chicken is warmed through.

5. Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and pesto over medium heat. Stir until the mixture is well combined and heated through. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Assemble the Pasta Bake
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, and cherry tomatoes if using. Pour the creamy pesto sauce over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. For an added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.

7. Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If the top browns too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.

8. Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color.

Tips for Success
Homemade Pesto: If you have the time and fresh basil on hand, making your own pesto can elevate this dish. Simply blend fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth.
Protein Variation: While chicken is the classic choice, feel free to substitute with turkey, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein for a different twist.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Customize your pasta bake with additional vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion
The Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a versatile and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of pesto, the creaminess of the sauce, and the satisfying texture of pasta.