Are you craving a delicious and comforting meal that is sure to please the entire family? Look no further than this Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake! This hearty dish combines tender chicken, colorful broccoli, and creamy Alfredo sauce, all baked to perfection, topped with melted cheese. It’s not only scrumptious but also a straightforward recipe that even beginner cooks can master.
Why Make This Recipe
The Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake is an ideal choice for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you desire a warm, inviting dish. Its creamy, cheesy goodness makes it a favorite among both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some vegetables without anyone even noticing. You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste, add extra veggies, or switch up the protein.
With the convenience of baking, you can prepare this meal ahead of time, pop it in the oven, and enjoy more time with your guests. In essence, it’s a delightful blend of flavors that brings joy to any table!
How to Make Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Ingredients
To make this delicious Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups homemade or store-bought Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for greasing
- Optional: garlic powder, onion powder
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, and Alfredo sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like extra flavor, feel free to add garlic powder or onion powder according to your preference.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Top with shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your DIY Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake!
How to Serve Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake
This Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake can be served immediately while it’s hot and cheesy. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread. You might also consider offering a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for added flavor and a pop of color.
If you have leftovers, this dish stays tasty and reheats well, making it a favorite for lunch the next day.
How to Store Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake
To store any leftovers of the Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake, allow it to cool completely. Then, cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For extended storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it in the oven or microwave.
Tips for Success with Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli offers a better texture and flavor than frozen.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Overcooked pasta can become mushy once baked.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for variation.
- Experiment with Sauces: While this recipe uses Alfredo sauce, you can substitute it with a homemade cheese sauce or even a white marinara sauce for a twist.
Variations
There are many ways to customize this Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake. For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. You could also swap the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein like tofu for a vegetarian version. Additionally, try incorporating different types of cheeses, such as gouda or cheddar, for added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to eat, bake it directly from the fridge, though you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I substitute the pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or rotini works best, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or elbows.
Is it necessary to use homemade Alfredo sauce for this dish?
Not at all! Store-bought Alfredo sauce is perfectly fine and can save you time. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, making homemade Alfredo sauce can enhance the dish’s flavor even further.
Create this Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake, and let its creamy goodness bring comfort to your dinner table. For more delicious recipes, check out our pasta recipes collection. Happy cooking!
Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, and Alfredo sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adding garlic powder or onion powder if desired.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.