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Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Bake – Family Favorite

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This creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake combines tender pasta, savory chicken, crisp broccoli, and a cheesy pesto sauce baked until bubbly and golden. The perfect comforting dish for family dinners or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)

  • 2 cups broccoli florets

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

  • 1/2 cup basil pesto

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan

  • 1/2 cup cream cheese or ricotta (optional)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella

  • Extra Parmesan for topping

Instructions

  • Cook pasta until al dente, adding broccoli in last 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.

  • Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add cream, pesto, Parmesan, and optional ricotta. Simmer until creamy.

  • Combine pasta, broccoli, chicken, and sauce. Mix well.

  • Pour into greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and extra Parmesan.

  • Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until bubbly. Broil for a golden top.

  • Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free pasta or dairy-free cheese as needed.

  • Add spinach or mushrooms for variety.

  • Make ahead and refrigerate before baking.

Find it online: https://yumnexio.com/creamy-pesto-chicken-broccoli-pasta-bake-family-favorite/