If you are on the lookout for a comforting, creamy, and crowd-pleasing dish, this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender pasta swirling with rich Alfredo sauce, vibrant broccoli florets, and succulent chicken all baked under a golden, bubbling layer of mozzarella cheese. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels both indulgent and homey, an effortless way to bring everyone around the table with smiles and full bellies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. From the creamy Alfredo sauce to the tender crunch of broccoli, every component brings its own magic to this dish.
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (penne recommended): A sturdy pasta like penne holds the sauce beautifully and carries every bite.
- 4 cups broccoli florets: Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of green and a delightful crunch to contrast the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (rotisserie is perfect): Tender and juicy, it’s the star protein that makes this bake satisfying.
- 1 (15 ounce) jar Alfredo sauce: The luscious base that coats every delicious bite with creamy goodness.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a subtle herbal warmth to deepen the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty notes and helps meld the flavors together.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to a bubbly, golden topping that’s simply irresistible.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Enhances and balances the whole dish perfectly.
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and positioning the rack in the upper third to ensure golden topping perfection. Then, boil a large pot of salted water to cook the pasta just shy of al dente so it doesn’t overcook in the oven.
Step 2: Cook Pasta and Broccoli Together
When the pasta is nearly done, add the broccoli florets directly to the boiling water with the pasta for the last two minutes. This method preserves broccoli’s vibrant color and texture while saving time. Drain everything and transfer it right into your casserole dish.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Next, toss in your shredded chicken, jar of Alfredo sauce, freshly grated Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything thoroughly so every pasta piece and broccoli floret is evenly coated in that rich, flavorful sauce.
Step 4: Top and Prepare for Baking
Smooth the mixture out into an even layer, then blanket the top with your shredded mozzarella. This ensures a bubbly, melty crust that will make each slice irresistible.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until it’s hot and bubbling. For an extra golden touch, switch to broil for a few minutes toward the end—but watch closely so it doesn’t burn. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper and serve right away.
How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the rich and cheesy bake. A light dusting of extra Parmesan can also elevate the flavor and presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some garlicky roasted vegetables. Breadsticks or a warm, crusty baguette also perfectly soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized meal, or dish it out family-style right from the casserole for a cozy, communal dining experience. Adding a colorful side of fresh tomatoes or a drizzle of chili oil can add visual and flavor interest too.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days, offering a quick and tasty lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe freezes beautifully. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before popping it in the freezer. It can last for up to 2 months without any significant loss in flavor or texture.
Reheating
For reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This helps maintain the creamy texture and melt that makes this recipe so comforting. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a faster fix.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?
Absolutely! Grilled, roasted, or sautéed chicken works just as well. Just make sure it’s cooked through and shredded or chopped before adding it to the bake.
Is it possible to substitute the broccoli?
Yes, you can swap broccoli for other veggies like cauliflower, asparagus, or even spinach depending on your preference. Just consider cooking times to keep the veggies tender but not mushy.
What type of pasta works best in this bake?
Penne is ideal because its hollow shape catches the sauce perfectly. However, rigatoni, rotini, or fusilli can work well too since they also hold sauce beautifully.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
With some modifications, yes! Use a dairy-free Alfredo sauce and vegan cheeses to replicate the creamy texture. Just keep in mind the flavor will be different but still delicious.
How long can I prepare this in advance?
You can assemble the dish a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to eat, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe is one of those heartwarming meals that brings comfort and smiles every time. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy creamy, cheesy, and wholesome flavors all in one dish. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make it a beloved staple at your table!
Print
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a creamy, comforting casserole perfect for a family dinner. Tender pasta and fresh broccoli are combined with shredded rotisserie chicken and a rich Alfredo sauce, then topped with mozzarella and parmesan cheese before baking to bubbly perfection. It’s an easy, satisfying one-dish meal that brings the classic flavors of Alfredo pasta to your oven.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
- 4 cups broccoli florets
Protein and Sauce
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie recommended)
- 1 (15 ounce) jar Alfredo sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cheese and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the oven rack in the top third of the oven to ensure even baking and browning of the cheese topping.
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook it for one minute less than the package instructions. Two minutes before the pasta finishes cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. Drain both together once done and transfer them to a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, grated parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning into the casserole dish with the pasta and broccoli. Toss everything thoroughly to combine and evenly coat all ingredients with the sauce.
- Layer and Top: Spread the mixture out into an even layer in the dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top to create a delicious cheesy crust when baked.
- Bake and Serve: Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbly. For a golden brown cheese top, optionally broil the bake for a few minutes—watch carefully to prevent burning. Season with salt and pepper as needed and serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal.
Notes
- Using fresh broccoli florets ensures tenderness and flavor, but frozen broccoli can be used as a substitute—thawed and drained.
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that adds great flavor and reduces prep time.
- Be sure not to overcook the pasta initially since it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Broiling at the end is optional but adds a nice golden crust to the cheese topping.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
