Craving a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying dinner that's also quick to make? Look no further! This Chicken Ziti and Broccoli recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It combines the creamy goodness of a classic ziti bake with the healthy boost of broccoli and tender chicken, creating a delicious and nutritious meal the whole family will love. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas, all while embracing the joy of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (16 ounce) package ziti pasta
- 1 (16 ounce) package broccoli florets
- 2 cups marinara sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions. During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pasta water to blanch slightly. Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 4: Assemble the Ziti Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, broccoli, cooked chicken, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Pour the ziti mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add 1 cup of cooked lentils or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina.
- Prep ahead: Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and assemble the casserole the day before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-450 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This Chicken Ziti and Broccoli recipe is a delightful example of delicious dishes that are both easy to make and incredibly flavorful. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of best recipes, perfect for satisfying family dinners or a comforting weeknight meal. Enjoy!