Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
Introduction
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a comforting, creamy casserole perfect for weeknight dinners. Combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich Alfredo sauce baked to golden perfection, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and cook seasoned chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from heat and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 3: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
- Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli florets, cut chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.
- Step 5: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and evenly sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese on top.
- Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Use cauliflower florets instead of broccoli for a different veggie option.
- Try substituting the Alfredo sauce with a homemade béchamel for a fresher taste.
- Top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking for a crunchy crust.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the bake.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely. Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a satisfying vegetarian version.
Print
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This comforting Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta in a creamy Alfredo sauce, topped with melted Parmesan cheese. Baked to bubbly golden perfection, this dish is an easy, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
Pasta
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking chicken, about 1 tbsp)
Topping
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side, ensuring it is cooked through. Remove from the skillet and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne or rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain well.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli florets, cut chicken pieces, and Alfredo sauce. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble Bake: Lightly grease a baking dish. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake!
Notes
- You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach.
- For extra flavor, add crushed red pepper flakes or Italian herbs to the Alfredo sauce.
- Use leftover cooked chicken to save time.
- To make it lighter, use a low-fat Alfredo sauce or reduce the amount of cheese topping.
- Ensure pasta is not overcooked, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chicken Alfredo bake, broccoli pasta casserole, creamy chicken bake, baked chicken pasta, comfort food dinner
