ziti chicken and broccoli recipe

The Best ziti chicken and broccoli recipe

I have been making this ziti chicken and broccoli recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a classic Italian dish that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

The combination of tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and crunchy broccoli is a match made in heaven. I love how this recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event.

My family and I can’t get enough of it, and I’m sure your family will love it just as much as we do. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a healthy meal.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, even on busy weeknights when time is of the essence. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and I’ve never had any issues with the pasta or sauce – it’s always turned out perfectly.

The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients and cooking the pasta al dente. This ensures that the pasta retains its texture and doesn’t become mushy or overcooked.

I’ve also found that using fresh broccoli florets adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and it’s a testament to the power of traditional Italian cooking.

Ziti Chicken and Broccoli Bake

4.6 from 570 votes

A comforting casserole featuring ziti pasta, tender chicken, and broccoli in a creamy tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for a family dinner and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb ziti pasta
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 cups broccoli florets
1 onion
2 cloves garlic
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
4Drain and set aside.
5While the pasta is cooking, cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
6Season with salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp olive oil.
7Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
8Remove from skillet and set aside.
9In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
10Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
11Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), heavy cream, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
12Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.
13Let the sauce cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
14Add the cooked chicken and broccoli florets to the skillet.
15Stir well to combine with the sauce.
16Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and the chicken is heated through.
17In a large baking dish, combine the cooked ziti pasta, chicken and broccoli mixture, and 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
18Stir well to combine and spread evenly in the dish.
19Top the casserole with 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
20Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
21Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
22This allows the cheese to set and makes it easier to serve.
23Serve hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to make it more nutritious. For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Watch Video Of How Ziti Chicken and Broccoli Bake Works

This ziti chicken and broccoli recipe is a staple in our household, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, deliciously flavorful, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re serving it at home or taking it to a potluck dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it to suit your tastes – want more veggies? Add them!

Want less sauce? Use less!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and adaptability – so feel free to experiment and find your own unique take on this classic Italian dish.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ziti Chicken and Broccoli Bake

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

A: For this ziti chicken and broccoli recipe, you’ll want to use ziti pasta – it’s a classic choice for this dish because of its long, thin shape that pairs perfectly with the chunky sauce and tender chicken.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

A: While you can use frozen broccoli as a substitute, I highly recommend using fresh broccoli florets for the best flavor and texture – they’ll add an extra layer of flavor to your dish that frozen broccoli just can’t replicate.

Q: How do I ensure that my chicken stays moist and tender?

A: To keep your chicken moist and tender, be sure to cook it on low heat for an extended period – this will help prevent it from drying out or becoming overcooked.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms – just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on their texture and tenderness.

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