If you are craving a creamy, comforting dinner that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and cheesy pasta, look no further than this Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe. This dish comes together easily and delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors—rich Alfredo sauce enveloping perfectly cooked chicken and al dente pasta, brightened by fresh broccoli. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re feeding family or friends, and it makes for fantastic leftovers too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building that irresistible flavor and satisfying texture. From creamy Parmesan to tender chicken breasts and fresh green broccoli, these ingredients come together to create a hearty, wholesome bake.
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb): Cubed for quick and even cooking, providing the main protein punch.
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets: Adds a delightful crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
- 8 oz farfalle or penne pasta: Both shapes hold sauce amazingly well, giving every bite that creamy goodness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious base of the Alfredo sauce that makes this bake so decadent.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the sauce to gourmet levels.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and savory warmth.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings a hint of herbaceous flair that complements both chicken and broccoli beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing chicken and veggies, adding a subtle fruity aroma.
How to Make Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This first step sets you up for a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cube the chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken pieces turn golden brown and are thoroughly cooked, which should take about 6–8 minutes. This gives the chicken a lovely texture that will hold up in the bake without becoming dry.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Broccoli
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and broccoli florets. Sauté for 3–4 minutes or until the broccoli turns bright green and is slightly tender, just right to keep a pleasant bite after baking.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil, then add your choice of farfalle or penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, generally around 9–11 minutes. Drain the pasta but reserve a small cup of the pasta water for later. This water can be handy to loosen up your sauce if it thickens too much during baking.
Step 5: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
Warm the heavy cream in a saucepan over low heat. Slowly whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a silky, smooth sauce. Stir in the Italian seasoning and adjust salt and pepper to your taste. This sauce is the heart of the dish, so take time here to get it just right.
Step 6: Combine and Bake
In your prepared baking dish, gently mix together the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, broccoli, and Alfredo sauce until everything is evenly coated. If the sauce looks too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water to achieve the perfect consistency. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling, signaling your dish is ready to be devoured.
How to Serve Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top before serving to add a fresh, herbaceous note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese can also enhance the visual appeal and bring an extra hit of cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
Pair this luscious bake with a crisp side salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a warm crusty loaf also makes a wonderful accompaniment, perfect for scooping up every last bit of creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style dinner, serve directly from the baking dish to keep things cozy and casual. For a dinner party, portion individual servings into small ramekins and broil briefly to create a golden crust on top. Adding a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs before baking can introduce a delightful crunchy texture that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the bake to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe will stay fresh for up to 3 days—a perfect ready-to-go meal for busy days.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Portion the bake into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Frozen, it will keep well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in a microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much after refrigeration to bring back that creamy indulgence.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to avoid making the bake watery. Fresh broccoli generally gives a better texture and vibrant color, though.
What type of cheese works best in this Alfredo bake?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is ideal for this recipe because it melts smoothly and provides that classic sharp, nutty flavor essential for Alfredo sauce. Pre-grated cheese can sometimes affect texture due to anti-caking agents.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra broccoli or substitute with other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You can also add plant-based chicken alternatives for protein.
How do I avoid the pasta getting mushy in the bake?
Cooking the pasta al dente and not over-mixing the bake prior to baking will help keep the pasta firm. Also, avoid overcooking during baking—20–25 minutes is just right to meld the flavors without turning the pasta mushy.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish a few hours before baking and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature while you preheat the oven before baking for evenly heated results.
Final Thoughts
This Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe is truly a keeper, combining simplicity with incredible flavor and comfort all in one dish. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this bake promises satisfying, cheesy, and wholesome goodness every time. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just find your new all-time favorite meal!
Print
Irresistible Chicken and 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-Italian
Description
This Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a comforting and creamy casserole featuring tender sautéed chicken, fresh broccoli, and al dente pasta enveloped in a rich Parmesan Alfredo sauce. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a perfect family-friendly meal ready in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
Pasta
- 8 oz farfalle or penne pasta
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Cube the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Sauté the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add vegetables: To the same skillet, add the minced garlic and broccoli florets. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
- Cook pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the farfalle or penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Prepare sauce: In a saucepan over low heat, warm the heavy cream. Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and bake: In the prepared baking dish, mix together the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, broccoli, and creamy Alfredo sauce until everything is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs if preferred for more juiciness.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth sauce.
- Keep a close eye on the bake towards the end to avoid burning the top layer.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but sauce may be less rich.
- Adding a sprinkle of mozzarella on top before baking adds an extra cheesy crust.
