Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Name: Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves approximately six people
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 8 oz farfalle or penne pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Recipe By:

Dahlia

Posted:

July 14, 2025

Updated:

July 14, 2025

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Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake! This creamy, cheesy dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, each bite is a delightful explosion of rich flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Comfort: The creamy Alfredo sauce combined with chicken and broccoli creates a rich flavor profile everyone will adore.
Versatile Dish: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Crowd-Pleaser: This bake is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering or special occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake efficiently, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Baking dish (9×13 inch)
Saucepan
Pot for boiling pasta
Cutting board
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: Essential for sautéing chicken and vegetables quickly and evenly.
Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and easy transport from oven to table.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)

For the Vegetables

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

For the Pasta

8 oz farfalle or penne pasta

For the Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Sauté cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown (6-8 minutes).
2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Broccoli and Garlic

In the same skillet:
1. Add minced garlic and broccoli.
2. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until broccoli is bright green.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot:
1. Bring salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain but reserve some pasta water.

Step 5: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a saucepan:
1. Heat heavy cream over low heat.
2. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
3. Add Italian seasoning for flavor enhancement.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

In your greased baking dish:
1. Combine cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, broccoli, and creamy sauce.
2. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 7: Bake the Dish

Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top.

Enjoy this delicious Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake that brings warmth to any meal!

How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Serving Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is simple yet satisfying. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Add a Fresh Salad

Garden Salad: Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing and croutons adds a classic touch to your meal.

Pair with Garlic Bread

Classic Garlic Bread: Crispy bread topped with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Elevate the flavor by adding mozzarella cheese before baking for an extra cheesy delight.

Complement with Roasted Vegetables

Seasoned Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring a natural sweetness that balances the richness of the bake.
Zucchini Medley: Roast zucchini with olive oil and herbs for a colorful and nutritious side.

How to Perfect Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

To achieve the best results with your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake, consider these helpful tips. Each step can enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and broccoli will give you the best flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente for optimal texture once baked; it will absorb some sauce during cooking.
Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper when seasoning chicken; it enhances overall flavor in the finished dish.
Make It Creamy: For an extra creamy sauce, add more heavy cream or use half-and-half instead of regular milk.
Add Extra Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese on top before baking can create a delicious crust that adds depth to every bite.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Pairing side dishes with Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to complement your main course.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic provide comfort alongside the creamy bake.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus with lemon juice offers a fresh, zesty contrast to rich flavors.
Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with vegetables adds nutrition without overwhelming flavors.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until tender provide natural sweetness that complements savory dishes.
Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze add a tangy crunch that pairs beautifully with this bake.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots offers a refreshing, crisp side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake turns out perfectly every time.

Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken and broccoli properly can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper while cooking to enhance the taste.
Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy in the bake. Follow package instructions for al dente texture, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or frozen broccoli may affect the dish’s freshness and color. Opt for fresh broccoli florets for better results.
Ignoring the cheese quality: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent melting well. Use freshly grated Parmesan for a creamier sauce.
Baking at the wrong temperature: Baking at too high a temperature can cause uneven cooking. Stick to 375°F (190°C) for optimal results.
Neglecting to grease your dish: Skipping this step can result in sticking and a messy cleanup. Always grease your baking dish before adding ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap; it lasts up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake.

Can I use another type of pasta for Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake?

Yes! Feel free to substitute farfalle or penne with your favorite pasta shape, such as rotini or fusilli.

How can I customize my Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake?

You can add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Is Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it a great option for meal prep. Just store portions in individual containers.

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

Yes! Assemble it ahead of time, cover tightly, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake?

This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

The Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is not just delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, allowing room for customization based on what you have on hand. Try this recipe today, and enjoy its creamy goodness!