If you’re craving a comforting, creamy, and satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe is your new best friend. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta all smothered in a rich Alfredo sauce, then topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese that bakes to golden perfection. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner that brings everyone to the table with smiles, offering simple ingredients that come together in a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and heartwarming goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference, and this recipe keeps it straightforward yet full of flavor. Each element plays its part in creating the creamy, cheesy, and slightly crisp finish that makes this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe shine.
- 2 cups cooked chicken: Use shredded or diced chicken to add hearty protein and tender bites throughout the bake.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen works great; they provide a delightful crunch and vibrant color.
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta: This wide, flat pasta holds the Alfredo sauce beautifully, ensuring every forkful is creamy.
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce: Whether store-bought or homemade, this sauce is the rich, luscious base that ties everything together.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey, stretchy melty goodness on top and inside.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a sharp, nutty flavor to boost richness and create a golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle but essential aromatic kick that enhances the sauce and chicken.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds another layer of savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a gentle spiciness that balances the creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors while seasoning the components perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté or toss the broccoli slightly for extra tenderness and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a hint of heat, this adds an exciting little punch.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh garnish that brightens the dish with color and a touch of herbal aroma.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by cooking your fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. While the pasta cooks, lightly sauté your broccoli florets in olive oil for a few minutes until they are bright green and just tender. This step brings out their natural sweetness and ensures the broccoli won’t turn mushy after baking.
Step 2: Combine Chicken and Seasonings
In a large mixing bowl, take your cooked chicken and toss it with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. These simple seasonings infuse the chicken with savory flavors that enhance the overall dish without overpowering the creamy Alfredo sauce.
Step 3: Mix Pasta, Broccoli, Chicken, and Alfredo Sauce
Drain the pasta and add it to the bowl with the seasoned chicken. Next, toss in your sautéed broccoli and pour in the Alfredo sauce, stirring gently to combine everything thoroughly. The goal is to coat every piece of pasta with that luscious sauce while distributing the chicken and broccoli evenly.
Step 4: Assemble and Add Cheeses
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. These cheeses will melt into a bubbly, golden topping that adds texture and cheesy flavor to each bite.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges develop a slight crisp. If you like a more browned top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes while keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that complements the creamy, cheesy richness perfectly. For added flavor, you can also dust with a touch more Parmesan just before serving.
Side Dishes
This bake stands out on its own, but pairing it with a fresh salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette or some warm, crusty bread can round out the meal beautifully. The salad balances the richness, and the bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover Alfredo sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the bake directly from the casserole dish family-style for cozy dinners, or portion it into individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Adding a small side of lemon wedges can provide diners with an optional fresh squeeze that cuts through the creaminess delightfully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After serving, let any leftovers cool completely and transfer them into an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe will stay delicious for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches or dinners when you need something comforting fast.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, making it a fantastic meal prep option. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the bake with foil to keep moisture locked in and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, typically about 20 minutes. For faster reheating, microwaving individual portions works too—just stir halfway through to heat evenly and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli in the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well—just thaw and drain it before adding to the bake to avoid excess water making the dish soggy.
Is it better to use homemade or store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Both are great! Store-bought Alfredo sauce saves time and is convenient, while homemade offers a fresher flavor and allows you to control ingredients. Choose what fits your schedule and taste preference.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, turkey or cooked sausage can be excellent substitutes. Even vegetarian options like mushrooms or tofu can work beautifully if you want to switch things up.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
Adding red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkling them over the top before baking is a simple way to introduce a bit of heat without overpowering the creamy richness.
What type of pasta works best for this Alfredo bake?
Fettuccine is perfect because its wide shape holds the sauce well, but you can also use penne, rigatoni, or even rotini—all excellent at catching that luscious Alfredo.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration every time you serve it. It’s creamy, comforting, and surprisingly easy to pull together, making it ideal for family dinners or feeding a crowd. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and experience just how delicious and satisfying a simple bake can be. Trust me, it’s going to become a favorite!
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Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting casserole perfect for family dinners. It combines tender cooked chicken, nutritious broccoli, and fettuccine pasta all baked in a rich Alfredo sauce topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a deliciously golden crust.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the fettuccine pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, blanch the florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender, then drain. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain excess water.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, cooked pasta, Alfredo sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated with sauce and seasonings.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a bright flavor and appealing presentation.
Notes
- You can use store-bought Alfredo sauce for convenience, or make your own for a richer flavor.
- Feel free to substitute fettuccine with other pasta types like penne or rotini.
- To add extra flavor, consider sautéing garlic in olive oil before mixing it in.
- Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a lower calorie option, use a light Alfredo sauce and reduced-fat cheese.
- If you like it spicy, increase the red pepper flakes according to your taste.
