Chicken Broccoli Ziti: A Flavorful Pasta Dish Made Easy
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Ziti: A Flavorful and Comforting Pasta Dish
Introduction:
Chicken broccoli ziti is a classic Italian-American pasta dish that combines tender chicken, broccoli florets, and a creamy Alfredo sauce, all baked together with ziti pasta. This dish is a favorite for its rich flavor, cheesy texture, and the perfect balance of vegetables and protein. Whether you're looking for a comforting meal on a weeknight or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this recipe will surely satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
- Pasta: 1 pound ziti pasta
- Chicken: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- Broccoli: 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- Alfredo Sauce:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Other Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Asiago cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk until smooth, forming a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
3. Combine Ingredients and Assemble the Dish:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli florets, Alfredo sauce, and cooked ziti pasta.
- Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
4. Bake and Serve:
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and Asiago cheeses evenly over the top of the dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Broccoli Ziti:
- Use freshly shredded cheeses for the best flavor and texture.
- If you don't have Alfredo sauce on hand, you can make your own using butter, flour, milk, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of white and dark meat chicken.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Bake the dish until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, and the sauce is heated through.
Variations:
- Chicken Broccoli Ziti with Spinach: Add some chopped spinach to the dish for an extra boost of nutrition and color.
- Chicken Broccoli Ziti with Roasted Vegetables: Roast some vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and zucchini, and then add them to the dish before baking.
- Chicken Broccoli Ziti with Sausage: Brown some Italian sausage and add it to the dish for a savory twist.
- Chicken Broccoli Ziti with Pesto: Top the baked dish with some pesto sauce for a flavorful variation.
- Chicken Broccoli Ziti with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the dish for a tangy and Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
Conclusion:
Chicken broccoli ziti is a versatile and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy broccoli florets, this dish is sure to be a hit among family and friends. Experiment with different variations to find your favorite combination of flavors and vegetables. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying pasta dish any night of the week!
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
- Yes, you can use any type of short pasta, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the dish and bake it up to 2 days ahead of time. Store it covered in the refrigerator and reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
Can I freeze chicken broccoli ziti?
- Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken broccoli ziti?
- A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread are all great choices.
Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Just thaw them completely before adding them to the dish.
