Baked Chicken Broccoli Ziti Alfredo: A Creamy, Cheesy Pasta Dish
Baked Chicken Broccoli Ziti Alfredo: A Flavorful and Comforting Dish
This baked chicken broccoli ziti Alfredo dish offers an irresistible combination of tender chicken, savory broccoli, and creamy Alfredo sauce, all nestled within a bed of perfectly cooked ziti pasta. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures make it a perfect meal for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound of ziti pasta
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 4 cups of milk
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil, and sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Cook the Ziti Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Roast the Broccoli: In a separate bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Spread the broccoli florets on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until a smooth paste forms. Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Dish: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, roasted broccoli, and Alfredo sauce. Mix well to combine. Pour the mixture into the baking dish with the chicken breasts. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake and Serve: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious baked chicken broccoli ziti Alfredo!
Tips for a Perfect Baked Chicken Broccoli Ziti Alfredo:
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh chicken, broccoli, and Parmesan cheese make a big difference.
- Season the chicken and broccoli generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will help enhance their flavors and make them more flavorful.
- Don't overcook the pasta. It should be al dente, slightly firm to the bite, to maintain its shape and texture in the dish.
- Make sure the Alfredo sauce is thick and creamy. If it's too thin, it won't coat the pasta and broccoli properly.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese on top before baking. This will create a golden brown, crispy crust that adds extra flavor and texture to the dish.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to set.
Conclusion:
Baked chicken broccoli ziti Alfredo is a delectable dish that combines the comforting flavors of classic Italian cuisine with the convenience of a one-pan meal. Its
