If you are craving a dish that combines indulgence, comfort, and a hearty dose of greens, you are in for a treat with this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo Recipe. This dish brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious Alfredo sauce baked to bubbling perfection with a mozzarella and Parmesan crust. It’s a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal that brings warmth to any dinner table, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy weekends in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the rich cream that forms the base of the sauce to the fresh broccoli that adds a pop of color and crunch, every ingredient is essential for bringing this dish to life.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to the Alfredo sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Injects a punch of aromatic flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups heavy cream: The luxurious backbone of the sauce, providing creamy texture.
- 1 cup whole milk: Balances the heaviness of the cream to keep the sauce smooth and pourable.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Essential for authentic Alfredo flavor and gooey texture.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, ensuring the dish doesn’t fall flat.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds a mild heat that wakes up the taste buds.
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb mix that lifts the sauce.
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta: The hearty pasta base that holds all the creamy goodness.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded: Protein-packed and tender for satisfying bites.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Infuses healthy green freshness and a slight crunch.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for a bubbly, cheesy topping.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for an extra burst of flavor and crispy crust.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking chicken, if uncooked): Ensures juicy, well-cooked chicken.
- 1 tsp garlic powder (for extra flavor): Boosts the garlicky goodness if you like it extra savory.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Pasta
If you’re starting with uncooked chicken, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken breasts until golden and cooked through, seasoning with garlic powder for an extra hit of flavor. Meanwhile, boil your chosen pasta until just al dente; you want it firm since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and becomes velvety smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli florets. Pour the creamy Alfredo sauce over the mixture and stir gently to coat everything evenly with sauce.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of color and a refreshing aroma that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy, rich flavors of the baked Alfredo dish. A light dusting of extra Parmesan can also amp up the cheesiness and make it extra special.
Side Dishes
This creamy dish pairs beautifully with a bright, crisp salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for mopping up every last bit of cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the Alfredo alongside roasted cherry tomatoes or tuck the chicken and broccoli mixture into warm, hollowed-out baguettes to serve as a comforting baked pasta skillet sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick re-heated meals during the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully. Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, heat individual servings in the microwave, stirring halfway to ensure even warmth without drying out the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or zucchini can be wonderful substitutes or additions. Just adjust cooking times slightly depending on their texture to keep the dish perfect.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or extra veggies like bell peppers and peas to keep the dish hearty and flavorful.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Parmesan and mozzarella provide the classic Alfredo feel, you can experiment with fontina or Gruyère for a slightly different twist on the cheesy, creamy texture.
How spicy can I make the dish?
For those who love a little heat, add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce or sprinkle on top before baking. It pairs surprisingly well with the creamy, cheesy flavors.
What is the best pasta to use?
Penne and fettuccine are ideal because they hold the sauce well and bake evenly, but feel free to use any short pasta like rigatoni or farfalle, depending on your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo Recipe is a shining example of comfort food done right: creamy, cheesy, and filled with tender chicken and fresh broccoli. Once you make this, it’s likely to become a cherished staple in your cooking rotation, perfect for both weeknights and special occasions. Don’t hesitate — gather your ingredients and enjoy the comforting magic of this dish yourself!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This creamy chicken and broccoli baked Alfredo is a comforting and delicious pasta casserole featuring tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich Alfredo sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese. The dish is baked to golden perfection, making it an ideal hearty meal for families or gatherings.
Ingredients
Sauce and Pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
Protein and Veggies
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Toppings and Additional Flavors
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking chicken, if using uncooked chicken)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta: Cook the penne or fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside, as the pasta will finish cooking in the oven during baking.
- Cook the chicken (if uncooked): In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if desired. Cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and lightly browned. Remove from heat.
- Make the Alfredo sauce: In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn. Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring continuously. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, broccoli florets, and Alfredo sauce. Mix gently until all components are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and additional grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled dish uncovered for about 20 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the baked Alfredo from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with optional red pepper flakes or sautéed mushrooms if desired for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother melting sauce compared to pre-grated varieties.
- Do not overcook the pasta during boiling, as it will continue to cook during baking; keep it al dente.
- Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or on top for a spicy kick if preferred.
- Incorporate crumbled bacon or sautéed mushrooms to elevate the dish’s flavor and texture.
- If using uncooked chicken, be sure to cook it thoroughly before mixing with the sauce.
