There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy casserole to bring comfort to your dinner table, and Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake delivers all that in one delicious, creamy dish. Combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, pasta, and rich Alfredo sauce, this baked casserole is a perfect blend of hearty and healthy. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies your craving for comfort food without feeling heavy or complicated.
Whether you’re feeding a busy family or looking for an easy make-ahead meal, this bake ticks all the boxes: it’s creamy, cheesy, packed with protein and veggies, and simple enough for even novice cooks. In this article, we’ll dive into what makes this recipe so irresistible, how to make it step-by-step, plus tips for presentation, customization, and nutrition.
Why You’ll Love Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake
This casserole is a one-dish wonder that combines several favorite elements:
- Creamy Alfredo Sauce: Rich and flavorful, it coats every bite of chicken and pasta.
- Nutritious Broccoli: Adds vibrant color and a boost of vitamins without overpowering the dish.
- Tender Chicken: Protein-packed and juicy, it makes the meal satisfying and balanced.
- Easy Assembly: Minimal prep and simple ingredients mean you can have it ready in under an hour.
This bake is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work well)
- 3 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a slight kick
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
How to Make Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking, add the broccoli florets to blanch them. Drain pasta and broccoli and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, Alfredo sauce, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Combine with Pasta
Add the drained pasta to the chicken and broccoli mixture. Stir gently to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
4. Assemble the Bake
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
5. Bake
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values based on 6 servings:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 32g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fiber: 4g
This bake offers a balanced meal with good protein and veggies, making it a hearty but nutritious choice.
Presentation Tips
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with a Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Family Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a cozy, homey feel, or plate individually with extra cheese on top.
Variations and Customizations
- Make It Vegetarian: Swap chicken for mushrooms, tofu, or additional vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the sauce for heat.
- Homemade Alfredo: Use a creamy homemade Alfredo sauce with butter, cream, and Parmesan for extra indulgence.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with Italian blends, provolone, or even a little sharp cheddar for different flavors.
Why This Recipe Works
Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake is the perfect weeknight meal because it’s:
- Comforting yet full of fresh ingredients
- Flexible to suit many dietary needs
- Easy to prep with pantry staples and simple steps
- Crowd-pleasing and easy to double for larger groups
Whether you’re craving a cozy, cheesy casserole or a balanced meal that’s easy to put together, Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Its creamy texture, rich flavors, and wholesome ingredients make it a standout dish for any occasion.