Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake – A Perfect Family Dinner

After a long day at work, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen preparing dinner. That’s where this Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake comes to the rescue! This comforting casserole combines tender chicken, nutrient-packed broccoli, and al dente pasta all smothered in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce that will have your family begging for seconds.

The aroma of garlic and Italian herbs wafting through your kitchen as this Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake bubbles away in the oven is simply heavenly. The golden, slightly crispy cheese topping gives way to a velvety sauce beneath, creating the perfect comfort food experience for any occasion.

What makes this Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake stand out is its versatility and simplicity. With just a few everyday ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep sessions, or even serving to guests at your next gathering. Let’s dive into this easy, cheesy one-pot wonder that combines everyone’s favorite flavors in one delicious package!

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

• ✅ This quick Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake recipe is ready in under 45 minutes from start to finish
• ✅ One-pot Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor
• ✅ Perfect family-friendly Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake that even picky eaters will devour
• ✅ The creamy Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day
• ✅ This healthy Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake balances protein, vegetables, and carbs in one dish
• ✅ Customize your Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake with your favorite add-ins and substitutions

Ingredients for Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

For the Pasta and Vegetables:

• 8 oz farfalle or penne pasta
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken:

• 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping:

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup additional grated Parmesan
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Tips and Substitutions

• For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta
• Substitute Greek yogurt for half the heavy cream to reduce calories
• Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra vegetables
• Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works perfectly for an even faster preparation
• Try different cheese combinations like Gruyere or Asiago for unique flavor profiles

How to Make Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake – Step by Step

Step 1: Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3. Season chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Cook pasta according to package directions, adding the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking time.
2. Drain the pasta and broccoli, then toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
3. Remove chicken from the pan and let rest for 5 minutes before cutting into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

1. In the same skillet (don’t clean it!), reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth and slightly thickened.
4. Add ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce coats the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken pieces.
2. Pour the Alfredo sauce over the mixture and gently toss until everything is well coated.
3. Transfer to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella and remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

1. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with light golden spots.
2. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
3. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

• Don’t overcook your pasta – Keep it slightly firmer than al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to your Alfredo sauce
• Grate your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded varieties which contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy
• For a crispy top, switch your oven to broil for the final 2 minutes of cooking (watch carefully to prevent burning!)
• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and set
• Make ahead tip: Assemble everything up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

Best Ways to Serve Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

This versatile dish works beautifully as a standalone meal or paired with complementary sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve with a crisp side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast
• Pair with garlic bread or breadsticks for the ultimate comfort food experience
• Add a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay for an elegant dinner
• For a complete meal, include a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes
• Garnish with red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a touch of heat

Nutritional Information for Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Per serving (recipe serves 6):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg

For a lighter version of this Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, use part-skim mozzarella, and increase the broccoli while slightly reducing the pasta portion.

Storage & Leftovers

This Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake makes excellent leftovers! Here’s how to store and enjoy them:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat refrigerated portions in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of milk if the sauce needs thinning.
• Meal prep: Divide into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble everything as directed but don’t bake it. Cover with foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve, remove from the refrigerator while your oven preheats and add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

What’s the best cheese to use for Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake?

Freshly grated Parmesan provides the most authentic Alfredo flavor, while mozzarella gives that perfect melty, stretchy topping. For extra richness, try adding some Romano or Asiago cheese to the mix.

How can I make Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake healthier?

To reduce calories, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, increase the broccoli, and consider whole wheat pasta. You can also use part-skim mozzarella and reduce the overall cheese amount slightly.

What other vegetables work well in Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake?

This versatile recipe works beautifully with spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, asparagus tips, or peas. You can either substitute for the broccoli or add them along with it for an even more vegetable-packed dish.

Conclusion

This Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is the definition of comfort food done right. It combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s sure to become a family favorite. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and flexibility – it’s easy enough for beginner cooks yet impressive enough for guests.

Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner, meal prep solution, or crowd-pleasing casserole for your next gathering, this Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake checks all the boxes. With its balanced flavors and textures, it’s no wonder this dish has stood the test of time as a beloved comfort food classic.

Have you tried making this Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake? Share your experience in the comments below, or tag us in your social media posts – we’d love to see your creations!

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