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### Instructions:
#### 1. **Preheat Your Oven**
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will give your pasta bake that golden-brown, bubbling finish when it’s all done.
#### 2. **Cook the Pasta**
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions, but be sure to undercook it by about 1-2 minutes. The pasta will finish cooking in the oven, and you don’t want it to turn too soft. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
#### 3. **Prepare the Creamy Sauce**
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the **heavy cream** and **chicken broth**, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the **Italian seasoning**, **paprika**, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the **mozzarella**, **cheddar**, and **Parmesan** cheeses to the skillet, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If you’re adding spinach, toss it in now and let it wilt down into the sauce.
#### 4. **Assemble the Bake**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and shredded chicken. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the pasta and chicken, stirring until everything is well coated.
Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with **breadcrumbs** for an extra crispy finish (optional).
#### 5. **Bake and Enjoy!**
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
This creamy, cheesy pasta bake is now ready to be devoured!
### Why My Family Can’t Get Enough of This Recipe
1. **Deliciously Creamy and Comforting**: The rich, creamy sauce made with heavy cream and a blend of cheeses makes each bite indulgent, while the shredded chicken adds a satisfying protein element that keeps everyone full.
2. **Perfectly Cheesy**: With mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, this dish is a cheese lover’s dream. The cheese melts into the sauce and makes every bite extra creamy and flavorful.
3. **Easy to Make**: Despite being so delicious, this recipe is incredibly simple to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients, you can have a hearty and comforting meal on the table in under an hour.
4. **Customizable**: This recipe is perfect for using up leftovers like rotisserie chicken, and it’s super easy to add in your favorite veggies like spinach, peas, or bell peppers. You can also swap out the cream for a lighter option if needed, making it versatile for different dietary needs.
5. **Crowd-Pleasing**: Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a weeknight meal, this dish is always a hit. Kids and adults alike love it, and it’s perfect for satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
6. **Leftover-Friendly**: This recipe makes enough to feed a crowd, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day. It’s the kind of dish that tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a bit!
### Tips for Making It Even Better
– **Add a Veggie Boost**: Try mixing in some roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to add a bit of extra flavor and texture to the dish.
– **Make It Spicy**: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some hot sauce over the top before serving.
– **Use Different Cheeses**: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Gruyère, fontina, or even a bit of blue cheese can bring unique flavors to the dish.
– **Serve It with a Side Salad**: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect side dish to balance the richness of the pasta bake.
### Conclusion: A Family Favorite That’s Here to Stay
This Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake is one of those recipes that will become a staple in your household once you try it. It’s easy to make, incredibly tasty, and the kind of meal that brings the whole family together. From the rich, cheesy sauce to the tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish has everything you need for a delicious and comforting meal.
Next time you’re in need of a crowd-pleasing recipe, give this one a try. Trust me, your family will be asking for it again and again—and you might just hear, “I seriously can’t get enough of this recipe!” too.
What’s the recipe your family can’t get enough of? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your go-to favorites!
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