Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe

If you’re craving rich comfort food with a healthy twist, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake. Imagine golden chunks of juicy chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, and perfectly al dente pasta, all enveloped in a dreamy, homemade Alfredo sauce and baked until bubbling and lightly golden. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need something crowd-pleasing for a family dinner, this casserole truly delivers on flavor, coziness, and just the right touch of decadence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need simple kitchen staples to make this recipe, but each ingredient plays a role in building the creamy, savory, and irresistible layers of this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why it matters!

• Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless for tender, protein-packed bites that soak up the sauce.
• Fresh Broccoli Florets: Adds bright color and a bit of crunch, balancing out the richness of the Alfredo.
• Penne or Farfalle Pasta: The nooks and crannies catch all the creamy sauce for every forkful.
• Heavy Cream: Forms the luscious backbone of your homemade Alfredo—no shortcuts here!
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Melts beautifully and delivers that irresistible cheesy flavor.
• Minced Garlic: Boosts aroma and infuses the dish with savory depth (don’t skip it!).
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that simply brings the whole casserole together.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple, vital seasoning for balance and brightness.
• Olive Oil: Keeps everything from sticking and adds a touch of richness throughout.

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish

First things first: preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a generous brush of olive oil. This not only keeps your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake from sticking but adds a layer of savory flavor to the bottom.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat up a swirl of olive oil. Season your bite-sized chicken cubes with salt and pepper, then toss them into the skillet. Let them get gorgeously golden on all sides—this takes about 6–8 minutes. Proper browning is the start of robust flavor!

Step 3: Add the Garlic and Broccoli

Once your chicken pieces are nearly cooked, stir in the minced garlic and fresh broccoli florets. Sauté for another 3–4 minutes. The garlic will make the whole kitchen smell heavenly, and the broccoli turns vivid green and just starts to soften—it will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 4: Boil the Pasta

While your chicken and veggies are cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add your farfalle or penne and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Make sure to reserve about half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining—it helps loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a small saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream over low–medium heat. Once it’s warm, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese bit by bit, along with your Italian seasoning. Continuously stir until you have a glossy, cheesy sauce—smooth as silk!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Now for the fun part! In your prepared baking dish, combine the drained pasta, sautéed chicken and broccoli, and pour that wonderful Alfredo sauce overtop. Use a spatula to fold everything together so each bite will have a bit of creamy, cheesy magic.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake into the oven for 20–25 minutes. You’re looking for bubbly edges and a slightly golden top—clip on your oven mitts, because it will smell absolutely out-of-this-world when you pull it out!

How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra Parmesan or a scattering of chopped fresh parsley over your hot casserole for color and a nutty, cheesy finish. Craving a little crunch? Add toasted breadcrumbs on top just before serving to contrast perfectly with the creamy layers underneath.

Side Dishes

This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a one-pan wonder, but it sings when paired with garlicky breadsticks or a crisp green salad. For a little extra brightness, a squeeze of fresh lemon over your plate can lift the whole meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, scoop servings into individual ramekins for a dinner-party worthy touch. For weeknights, just place the casserole dish right on the table—family-style encourages seconds (and let’s be honest, you’ll want them!).

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days—perfect for lunches or quick dinners later in the week.

Freezing

Want to stash some away for a busy night ahead? Divide into freezer-safe portions and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat single servings in the microwave, stirring halfway through to keep things creamy. For larger portions, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through. If the sauce is too thick, a splash of milk or reserved pasta water does wonders!

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut—just shred and add to the baking dish with the broccoli, skipping the stovetop sauté step.

Is it possible to make Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake gluten-free?

Yes! Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta, and double-check that your other ingredients (especially the Parmesan) are gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. Mushrooms, spinach, or peas are all delicious additions—just sauté them along with the broccoli to keep everything perfectly tender.

What’s the best way to lighten up this recipe?

Try subbing half-and-half for the heavy cream or using less cheese for a lighter version, though keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich. Low-fat milk can work, but the texture will be less creamy.

How do I prevent the bake from drying out?

Watch your baking time and don’t skimp on the sauce—cover the dish with foil if you notice it browning too quickly, and add a splash of extra cream or pasta water before baking if things seem dry.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a dish that feels like a warm hug, this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is it. Give it a try and share it with those you love—you just might discover a brand new family favorite!

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