| |

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that is both comforting and irresistible, the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. This creamy, cheesy casserole brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich Alfredo sauce layered over perfectly cooked fettuccine, all baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, and it’s simple enough to make on a busy weeknight while still feeling special enough for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Every bite melts in your mouth, combining delicate garlic and onion flavors with the satisfying textures of chicken and broccoli, making this recipe an absolute favorite in any kitchen.

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step toward making a truly memorable Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe. Each component plays a role in balancing flavors, adding texture, and creating the dish’s signature creamy richness.

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Provides a hearty protein base with tender, juicy bites in every forkful.
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen): Adds a fresh, vibrant green pop and a satisfying crunch or tenderness depending on cooking.
  • 8 ounces fettuccine pasta: This wide noodle carries Alfredo sauce beautifully, giving the dish a lush, comforting texture.
  • 2 cups Alfredo sauce: The creamy heart of the bake, either store-bought for ease or homemade for extra richness.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to create that irresistible gooey, cheesy layer.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the Alfredo sauce and chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle aromatic notes without overpowering the creamy sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances overall depth with mild sweetness and earthiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle kick to balance the richness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Perfectly seasons all ingredients to bring out their best flavors.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to lightly sauté or keep ingredients moist before baking.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a whisper of heat for those who love a little spice.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Provides a fresh, colorful finish and a hint of herbal brightness.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli

Start by cooking the fettuccine in salted boiling water until al dente, which means it’s tender but still slightly firm to the bite. About two minutes before the pasta is ready, add the broccoli florets to the pot so they cook until just tender. This method ensures the broccoli retains its vibrant color and slight crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy textures later on. Drain everything and set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or diced cooked chicken with the Alfredo sauce. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and if you like, red pepper flakes for a bit of warmth. Stir everything until the chicken is well coated, allowing the seasonings to disperse evenly throughout the creamy base. This mixture forms the savory heart of your bake.

Step 3: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Chicken Mixture

Gently fold the drained pasta and broccoli into the bowl with the chicken Alfredo mixture. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed to ensure that each bite captures the perfect balance of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli. The cohesive blend here is what makes this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe such a delight.

Step 4: Assemble and Add Cheese

Lightly oil a baking dish with the olive oil to prevent sticking and add a subtle richness. Transfer the combined pasta, chicken, and broccoli into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top, covering the casserole with a generous layer of melty, golden cheese that will bake into the ultimate comfort food crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. The bake will be hot, creamy, and irresistible with a slightly crispy edge of cheese, inviting you to dive in immediately. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving—it helps everything settle and enhances flavors.

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley is a no-brainer for garnishing this bake. The bright green flecks add a beautiful contrast to the creamy white sauce and golden cheese, while providing a subtle freshness that cuts through the richness. For an extra touch, you could sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or a tiny drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe is quite rich, so pairing it with light, crisp side dishes works wonderfully. Consider a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon. Garlic bread is another fantastic option if you want to keep things indulgent and soak up every last bit of that Alfredo sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve the bake straight from a rustic, shallow baking dish placed on the table so everyone can help themselves family-style. Alternatively, plate individual portions with an elegant sprinkle of fresh herbs and a small wedge of lemon to brighten each bite. You could even serve portions in mini cast iron skillets for a cozy, personal touch that impresses guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Use an airtight container to maintain the moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out. The flavors will meld even more overnight, which means reheated portions often taste just as good, if not better, than when freshly baked.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully if you want to prepare it in advance for busy nights. Assemble the bake as usual but skip the final baking step. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing, and consume within 2-3 months for best quality. To bake from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and then proceed with the baking step as directed, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat individual servings gently in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through and bubbly. Covering with foil helps prevent the top from over-browning during reheating. A splash of milk or extra Alfredo sauce before warming can revive any dryness and keep the dish creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of fettuccine?

Absolutely! While fettuccine works wonderfully with Alfredo sauce, feel free to swap in penne, rotini, or even rigatoni. Just keep in mind that different shapes might affect the overall texture and sauce distribution slightly.

Is it better to use fresh or frozen broccoli?

Both fresh and frozen broccoli work well in this bake. Fresh broccoli offers a bit more crunch and color, while frozen broccoli is convenient and still delivers great taste, especially if you steam it briefly beforehand.

Can I make my own Alfredo sauce for this recipe?

Definitely! Homemade Alfredo sauce is super satisfying to make and lets you customize the creaminess and flavor. All you need is butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan. But store-bought Alfredo sauce saves time and still yields delicious results.

How spicy does the bake get with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a gentle hint of heat that complements the creamy sauce without being overwhelming. You can always adjust the amount or omit it if you prefer a milder bake.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze before baking. It reheats well and makes for quick, satisfying lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe that keeps it coming back to our family table again and again. Its creamy richness combined with fresh broccoli and tender chicken makes every forkful a delight. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, feeding a hungry crowd, or simply craving comfort food, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites too. So grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into a dish that feels just like a warm hug from the oven.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 66 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a comforting and flavorful family dinner recipe that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy Alfredo sauce, and cheesy pasta baked to perfection. It’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights while still delivering a rich, satisfying meal everyone will love.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Vegetables

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

Pasta

  • 8 ounces fettuccine pasta

Sauces and Dairy

  • 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Spices and Oils

  • 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, for a bit of heat)

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets until tender-crisp. If frozen, thaw beforehand and drain any excess water.
  3. Sauté Chicken and Seasonings: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken along with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine and warm through for about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seasoned chicken, broccoli florets, and Alfredo sauce. Mix well to evenly coat all ingredients with the sauce.
  5. Assemble the Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  6. Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a fresh and vibrant finish.

Notes

  • You can use store-bought Alfredo sauce or make your own homemade version for extra flavor.
  • Substitute chicken with turkey or a plant-based protein for variation.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added nutrition.
  • For a gluten-free version, replace fettuccine with gluten-free pasta.
  • Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Similar Posts