Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing comfort dish that always gets rave reviews, you have to try this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake. It’s everything you want in a cozy pasta casserole: creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a blanket of golden melted Parmesan, all baked to perfection. This is the kind of meal that fills your home with irresistible aromas and brings everyone running to the table! Not only does it come together with simple, everyday ingredients, but it’s also versatile and perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or a make-ahead meal that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake shines with a handful of essential pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Each one brings something special to the flavor, texture, and heartiness that make this bake unforgettable. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

• Chicken Breasts: Go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for juicy, protein-packed bites throughout the bake.
• Fresh Broccoli Florets: These bring a pop of color, a hint of crunch, and balance out the creamy richness.
• Pasta (Penne or Rotini): Grab your favorite shape to help catch all that luscious Alfredo sauce—either penne or rotini works!
• Alfredo Sauce: Store-bought is quick and convenient, but homemade lets you control the richness and seasonings.
• Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Don’t skip this topping—it melts into an irresistible golden crust.
• Garlic Powder: Just a teaspoon adds plenty of flavor complexity and that classic Italian aroma.
• Salt and Pepper: Season simply to taste; it’s all you need to round out every bite.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken to a gorgeous golden brown.

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, drizzle a little olive oil and heat over medium. Season your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then cook them in the skillet until each side is beautifully golden—about 5 to 7 minutes per side. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest while you prep the other ingredients. This step ensures your chicken is tender, flavorful, and won’t dry out in the bake!

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package directions, stopping just short of fully done—that’s what “al dente” means! The pasta will finish cooking in the oven, soaking up all the creamy goodness later.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

When the chicken is cool enough to handle, chop it into bite-sized cubes. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the drained pasta, raw broccoli florets, cubed chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Give it a thorough mix so every morsel is coated. Don’t worry if the broccoli is still raw—it softens in the oven but stays fresh and vibrant.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Lightly grease a baking dish. Pour the combined pasta, chicken, and broccoli mix into the dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese in an abundant, even layer right on top. The cheese forms a delicious golden crust and brings the bake together!

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Slide the dish into your preheated oven, and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye out for the telltale signs: bubbly edges and a golden-brown top. Once the Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake looks gooey and irresistible, pull it out and let it rest a few minutes before serving—just enough for the cheese to settle but still be perfectly melty.

How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Garnishes

Turn up the flavor with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil just before serving your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake. If you love that garlicky Italian kick, toss on a few toasted breadcrumbs or an extra grind of black pepper for good measure. A little lemon zest can also brighten things up!

Side Dishes

This creamy casserole is satisfying on its own, but wow, does it shine alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. A warm, crusty loaf of garlic bread is practically mandatory for mopping up every last bit of that Alfredo sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun family-style meal, serve the bake straight from the dish with a big serving spoon, letting everyone dig in. Or, for a more elegant touch, plate individual portions and finish each with a flourish of Parmesan and fresh herbs. Mini baking dishes are also adorable for dinner parties or special occasions, turning your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake into a personalized treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, leftovers of Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, so your second-day helping just might taste even better!

Freezing

This bake is a freezer superstar. Wrap portions tightly or cover the whole dish in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so the texture stays creamy and tender.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through (about 20 minutes). A microwave works in a pinch for single servings. If the sauce thickens a bit, just add a splash of milk or extra Alfredo before reheating to revive its creamy magic.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake—just shred or cube it and mix it right in with the other ingredients. It comes out just as delicious and shaves precious time off your prep.

Should I cook the broccoli before adding it?

No need! The broccoli florets steam perfectly in the oven as the bake cooks. If you prefer your broccoli extra soft, a quick blanch ahead of time is an option, but most people love the crisp-tender bite fresh provides.

Can I use a different type of cheese on top?

Definitely. While Parmesan is classic, you can swap it with mozzarella, provolone, or even an Italian blend for a meltier or cheesier finish. Experiment to find your perfect cheesy crust!

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply leave out the chicken and add extra broccoli or a medley of your favorite vegetables—mushrooms and spinach are especially delicious. Just be sure to use a vegetarian-friendly Alfredo sauce if needed.

What pasta shapes work best for Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake?

Penne and rotini are perfect because their nooks and ridges hold onto the creamy Alfredo, but you can also try fusilli, rigatoni, or shells. Choose a sturdy pasta shape that won’t get lost in the sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to bring this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake into your kitchen. Trust me, this is one of those recipes that’s destined to become a new favorite—simple, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy. Give it a try soon, and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

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