The Best Chicken Ziti Broccoli Recipe – A Tasty And Easy Weeknight Meal

The best chicken ziti broccoli recipe is a culinary masterpiece that combines tender chicken, hearty ziti pasta, and vibrant broccoli in a creamy and flavorful sauce. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you crave a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onion and cook until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Make the sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, cream of mushroom soup, milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, broccoli, chicken, and sauce. Stir well to combine.
6. Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
7. Serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Chicken Ziti Broccoli Recipe:

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the taste of your dish.
• Season to taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese as needed.
• Cook the pasta al dente: Al dente pasta will hold its shape and texture when combined with the sauce.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli: Broccoli should be tender but still retain its bright green color.
• Serve with a side salad: A fresh side salad will complement the richness of the chicken ziti broccoli.

Variations:

• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your dish, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Use different pasta: You can substitute ziti pasta with any other type of pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or shells.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder to the sauce for a little heat.
• Top with breadcrumbs: For a crispy topping, sprinkle bread crumbs on top of the dish before baking.

The Perfect Meal for Any Occasion

This best chicken ziti broccoli recipe is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

FAQ:

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Simply thaw it before adding it to the dish.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Simply assemble the dish and bake it for 15 minutes. Then, cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: This dish pairs well with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or a simple green vegetable.