Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. Combining tender pieces of chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a rich Alfredo sauce, this dish is baked to golden perfection for a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a special occasion, this baked Alfredo will surely become a family favorite. The creamy Alfredo sauce coats the pasta and vegetables, while the chicken adds a hearty protein boost, making it a well-rounded and delicious meal. The best part? It’s simple to make, and you can even prepare it ahead of time, making it perfect for busy nights. With its balance of flavors and creamy texture, Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is a dish that checks all the boxes for flavor, comfort, and ease.
Ingredients:
To make Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cooked and diced
- 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, steamed broccoli, and the creamy Alfredo sauce. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 6: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crispy golden crust. For extra cheese lovers, you can also add a little more shredded mozzarella on top.
Step 7: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If using breadcrumbs, they should be crisped and lightly browned.
Step 8: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, before serving.
Variation:
Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is a highly customizable dish. Here are a few variations to suit your taste or dietary preferences:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for a meatless version.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the Alfredo sauce to give it a spicy kick.
- Different Cheese Blend: Instead of using only Parmesan and mozzarella, experiment with a blend of cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. You can also use a gluten-free breadcrumb topping if desired.
- Make it Low-Fat: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream option, and use a reduced-fat version of cheese.
Cooking Note:
This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Simply assemble the dish, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the dish from the fridge and bake as directed. You may need to add an additional 5–10 minutes to the baking time since the dish will be cold. For a make-ahead freezer meal, you can assemble the entire dish and freeze it before baking. Just be sure to wrap it tightly and store it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, let the casserole thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual.
Serving Suggestions:
Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo pairs wonderfully with a side salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. A simple Caesar salad or a garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the Alfredo sauce. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or green beans to add more color and nutrition to the meal. For a more indulgent treat, consider pairing it with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, which complement the creamy flavors of the dish.
Tips:
- To ensure the pasta is coated in the sauce, don’t overcook it. Al dente pasta holds up better when baked and absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the dish for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
- For added flavor, try sautéing the chicken with some garlic and herbs before adding it to the Alfredo sauce. You can also marinate the chicken in a bit of Italian dressing for extra flavor.
- If you don’t have fresh broccoli, frozen broccoli works just as well—just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the dish.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
30–35 minutes
Total Time:
45–50 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):
Calories: 450
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or fettuccine. Just make sure to cook it al dente before adding it to the sauce.
Q: Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
A: Yes! You can use turkey, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a different twist.
Q: Can I use a store-bought Alfredo sauce?
A: While homemade Alfredo sauce gives the best flavor, you can certainly use store-bought Alfredo sauce to save time.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Conclusion:
Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is the perfect dish for anyone who loves creamy, cheesy pasta with tender chicken and vegetables. It’s easy to prepare, flavorful, and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting a gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a hit. The combination of Alfredo sauce, cheese, chicken, and broccoli creates a comforting and satisfying meal that will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a cozy, indulgent dinner with minimal effort!