Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake: A Perfect Comfort Food Delight

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a warm, cheesy pasta bake. Adding a touch of gourmet with creamy pesto, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli makes this dish not only comforting but also nutritious and full of flavor. Here’s everything you need to know to create this delicious Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake.

Ingredients
For this delightful pasta bake, you will need:

2 cups of cooked chicken breast (diced or shredded)
3 cups of broccoli florets (blanched or steamed)
1 pound of pasta (penne, fusilli, or any other short pasta)
2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups of heavy cream
1 cup of milk
1 cup of prepared pesto sauce
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 small onion (finely chopped)
3 cloves of garlic (minced)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
Directions
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s ready to bake the dish to perfection.

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the prepared pesto sauce, ensuring it is well incorporated into the cream mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Combine the Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, and broccoli florets.
Pour the creamy pesto sauce over the mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish.
Top with Cheese:

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture.
Bake:

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

Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta Bake
Make Ahead: You can assemble the pasta bake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and then bake as directed.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more broccoli or other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Add Crunch: For a crunchy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter over the cheese before baking.
Why This Dish is a Winner
The Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food for several reasons:

Flavorful: The combination of creamy sauce, vibrant pesto, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is sure to please any palate.
Nutritious: Broccoli adds a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals, while chicken provides a lean protein source.
Versatile: This recipe is easily adaptable to include your favorite ingredients or to cater to dietary preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress with minimal effort.

In conclusion, the Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a warm, inviting dish that brings people together. With its rich flavors and comforting nature, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delightful dish with a side of garlic bread and a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.