If comfort food had a superstar, the Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe would easily take center stage. This creamy, cheesy casserole perfectly combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and al dente penne pasta all enveloped in a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like a warm hug on a plate, brightened by the subtle herbaceous notes from Italian seasoning and topped with a golden, bubbly mozzarella crust. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. These simple staples come together beautifully, from the tender chicken to the fresh broccoli, creating a comforting yet elegant meal.
- Cooked chicken (2 cups): Using shredded or diced chicken ensures each bite has juicy protein without being dry.
- Penne pasta (4 cups cooked): The classic shape holds sauce wonderfully, helping every forkful stay creamy.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Steamed or blanched for a crunchy, green pop packed with nutrients.
- Alfredo sauce (1 15-ounce jar): The star creaminess that ties everything together with velvety goodness.
- Italian seasoning (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle herbaceous depth that lifts the flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Brings nutty, salty richness that melds with the sauce perfectly.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melts into a bubbly, golden topping that’s pure indulgence.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
How to Make Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pasta
Get your oven heating to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when the dish is assembled. Cook the penne pasta until just al dente for perfect bite, and in the last few minutes, add your broccoli florets to blanch. This technique keeps the greens vibrant and crisp tender, which balances the creamy sauce wonderfully.
Step 2: Combine the Filling Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli with the Alfredo sauce. Stir in the Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan to infuse the mixture with savory layers. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper for that final flavor boost—it’s all about harmony here.
Step 3: Transfer and Top
Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then pour in the creamy chicken and broccoli mixture. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top—it will melt into a beautifully golden crust that’s irresistible.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You want the bake bubbling hot and the cheese on top melted and golden. If you love a richer brown finish, broil for 1 or 2 minutes but be vigilant to avoid burning.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the bake cool for about 5 minutes—it helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes it easier to serve without losing its luscious texture. For a fresh pop of color, sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving warm and enjoy every comforting bite.
How to Serve Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can elevate the presentation while adding a touch of freshness. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes also works wonders if you want a little heat.
Side Dishes
This creamy Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. Garlic bread or crusty French bread rounds out the meal perfectly, soaking up every bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this bake family-style in the casserole dish straight from the oven for a warm and inviting vibe. For a more elegant touch, plate individual servings with a lemon wedge on the side to brighten the creamy richness just before eating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days and remains just as comforting and flavorful when reheated.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully. Before baking, assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed for a hassle-free meal.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese bubbles again. Using the oven keeps the bake creamy and prevents it from drying out like a microwave might.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great for holding the sauce, rigatoni, rotini, or even farfalle can be delicious alternatives. Just cook them according to package directions until al dente.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can swap the Alfredo sauce for a lighter homemade version using cauliflower or Greek yogurt. Using part-skim mozzarella and lean chicken breast will also cut calories without sacrificing taste.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well if you steam or blanch it first to remove excess moisture. This helps avoid sogginess in the bake and keeps the texture just right.
What if I don’t have cooked chicken on hand?
No problem! You can quickly cook raw chicken breasts in a skillet with a bit of seasoning, then shred or dice before mixing. Leftover rotisserie chicken also makes a fantastic shortcut.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Definitely. Substitute dairy-free Alfredo sauce and vegan cheese alternatives to keep it creamy without dairy. Just ensure the cheese melts nicely for that golden topping.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that’s creamy, comforting, and crowd-pleasing, this Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe deserves a spot at your table. It’s easy to prepare yet feels like a special treat every time. Trust me, once you try it, this bake will become your go-to weeknight favorite or a welcomed dish for friends and family gatherings. Give it a whirl and enjoy the warmth and joy it brings to your kitchen!
Print
Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake combines tender cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and al dente penne pasta tossed in a creamy Alfredo sauce with Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Topped with melty mozzarella and baked until golden and bubbly, this dish is perfect for a family dinner that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 4 cups cooked penne pasta (about 8 ounces dry)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
- 1 (15-ounce) jar Alfredo sauce
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare it for baking the casserole.
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Boil the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Add broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes to blanch them. Drain both well to avoid sogginess.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, pasta, broccoli, Alfredo sauce, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste and stir well to evenly coat all components.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the combined mixture evenly inside.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the mixture to create a delicious, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the bake is hot, bubbly, and the cheese has turned a golden brown.
- Broil for Extra Color (Optional): For a more browned and crispy top, broil the casserole for 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bake to cool for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot for a fresh touch.
Notes
- Use cooked shredded chicken from leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Broccoli can be steamed or blanched to retain a vibrant green color and tender-crisp texture.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to the saltiness of your Alfredo sauce.
- For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and baked when ready, making it ideal for meal prepping.
