Easy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a beloved dish that combines the rich, creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and nutritious broccoli. This comforting casserole delivers the best of both worlds: a hearty, flavorful meal that’s quick and simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or looking for a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe is your go-to solution. With its savory flavor, creamy texture, and satisfying ingredients, it’s no surprise that this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake recipe has become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe

This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a shortcut to a stress-free dinner. Perfect for busy parents, it combines all the essential food groups in one pan, making it a complete meal that requires minimal effort. The golden, melty mozzarella topping is the icing on the cake, adding a savory crunch that balances the creamy, rich Alfredo sauce.

Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a great option for picky eaters and kids. The combination of pasta, chicken, and cheese is universally appealing, making it an ideal dish for family meals. Plus, the warmth and comfort of this casserole make it especially inviting on a chilly evening, turning any dinner into a cozy experience.

Key Ingredients for Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

To create this delightful casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Pasta: 8 ounces of uncooked penne. Penne’s sturdy shape holds up well to the creamy sauce and blends perfectly with the other ingredients.
• Broccoli: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets. This green veggie adds a nutritious boost to the dish while complementing the rich sauce.
• Chicken: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie recommended). Using rotisserie chicken adds convenience and a delicious depth of flavor.
• Alfredo Sauce: 1 (15 ounces) jar. You can use store-bought for ease, but feel free to use homemade if you prefer.
• Italian Seasoning: 1/2 teaspoon. This adds a fragrant, herby note that elevates the flavor profile.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup freshly grated. Freshly grated Parmesan brings a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the dish.
• Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups shredded. This cheese creates a smooth, gooey texture that’s essential for that perfect bake.
• Salt and Pepper to taste. Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.

Helpful Tips

For the best results, consider the following tips:

• Extra Sauce: If you prefer a saucier dish, opt for a 19-ounce jar of Alfredo sauce instead of the 15-ounce size.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan: Always grate your own Parmesan for superior flavor and texture. Pre-grated Parmesan doesn’t melt as well and lacks the richness of freshly grated cheese.
• Broccoli Yields: One pound of broccoli typically gives you 3-4 cups when cut into florets. You can easily adjust the quantity based on your preference.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Here’s how to make this delicious casserole in a few simple steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C): This ensures the casserole will bake evenly.
2. Boil the pasta: Cook 8 ounces of penne pasta according to the package directions. Add the broccoli florets to the water during the last 2 minutes of cooking to blanch them just right.
3. Drain and Combine: Drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, shredded rotisserie chicken, Alfredo sauce, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
4. Assemble the Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake and Broil: Bake the casserole for about 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden. For an extra crispy topping, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
6. Season and Serve: Before serving, season with salt and Pepper to taste, and enjoy!

Tools for This Recipe

The right tools make this recipe even easier:

• Colander: Perfect for draining both the pasta and broccoli.
• 9×13-inch casserole dish: The ideal size for this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake.
• Microplane Zester: For easily grating fresh Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor.

Pro Tips & Tricks

To make sure your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Evenly Cut Broccoli: Cut your broccoli florets into similar sizes to ensure they cook evenly. Larger pieces may remain too tough, while smaller ones could overcook.
• Warm Ingredients: Warm up the chicken, sauce, and cheese before mixing them together. This helps them combine more easily and reduces overall cooking time.
• Add Liquid if Necessary: If the casserole appears too dry after baking, you can add a splash of milk or more Alfredo sauce to achieve your desired consistency.

Time-Saving Tips

If you’re short on time but still want to enjoy this delicious Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake, consider these time-saving tricks:

• Using Pre-Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a real game-changer. It’s already cooked and packed with flavor, so you can skip the step of cooking the chicken yourself.
• Prepping Ingredients in Advance: Prep your broccoli, chicken, and pasta earlier in the day or the night before. This will save you time during the weeknight rush.
• Baking Tips for Faster Cooking: Preheat your oven, and make sure the casserole is evenly spread in the dish to promote quicker cooking.

Substitutions and Variations

Make this recipe your own by trying these substitutions and variations:

• Pasta Shape: If you don’t have penne on hand, feel free to use other similar-sized pasta shapes like bowties, rigatoni, or ziti.
• Frozen Broccoli: If fresh broccoli isn’t available, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to cook it for less time when boiling.
• Homemade Alfredo Sauce: For a homemade touch, make your own Alfredo sauce. Double a recipe that yields about 1.5 cups of sauce to replace the jarred option.

What to Serve with This Chicken Bake

Pair your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake with these sides for a complete meal:

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to this cheesy, creamy dish.
• Side Salad: Serve a refreshing side salad with a creamy balsamic or mango dressing to balance the richness of the bake.

More Easy Pasta Bakes

If you love this Chicken Alfredo Bake, try these other irresistible pasta bakes:

• Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
• Alfredo Tortellini Bake
• Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake
• Chicken Alfredo Ravioli Bake
• Cheeseburger Quesadilla

FAQs

What’s the difference between chicken Alfredo and fettuccine Alfredo?

Chicken Alfredo typically features grilled or sautéed chicken, served in a creamy Alfredo sauce, while fettuccine Alfredo is simply pasta tossed in the rich sauce, without the chicken.

How many calories are in Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake?

This dish is indulgent, and the calorie count will vary based on the serving size and the specific ingredients used. On average, a serving contains about 500-600 calories.

How can I make my Chicken Alfredo taste better?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding freshly ground black Pepper, a pinch of nutmeg, or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley also brighten up the dish.

Why is Chicken Alfredo pasta healthy?

Chicken Alfredo can be made healthier by using lean chicken, reducing the amount of cheese, or using a lighter version of Alfredo sauce made with Greek yogurt.

Why is Alfredo so high in calories?

Alfredo sauce is typically made with butter, heavy cream, and cheese, which are all calorie-dense ingredients. To reduce the calories, consider using lighter ingredients or reducing the portion size.

Conclusion

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that combines the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the nutrition of broccoli and the hearty flavor of chicken. This ultimate comfort food brings both flavor and ease to your table, making it a meal everyone will love. Whether you’re looking to feed a hungry family or prepare a quick weeknight dinner, this casserole offers everything you need in one pan. Enjoy the warmth, convenience, and deliciousness of Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake tonight!