Imagine a creamy, dreamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake bubbling away in your oven, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that makes you weak in the knees. The rich, velvety sauce clings to tender pasta and succulent chicken pieces while vibrant green broccoli bursts with color and nutrition—a feast for both the eyes and the palate. As you take that first heavenly bite, you’re transported back to cozy family dinners, where laughter fills the air and every forkful is a warm hug.

Now picture this: it’s a rainy Sunday afternoon, and your loved ones are gathered around the table, eagerly anticipating dinner. The moment you pull this glorious bake from the oven, everyone rushes to claim their share. Not only does it taste amazing, but Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake also brings people together, creating memories that last long after the plates are cleared.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is incredibly easy to prepare even on busy weeknights
- With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s sure to please everyone at the table
- The colorful broccoli not only adds nutrition but also looks stunning when baked
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to swap in whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand!
I once made this dish for a family gathering, and my cousin’s eyes widened as he declared it “the best thing I’ve ever eaten”—which is quite a compliment coming from him!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
Fresh Broccoli Florets: Opt for bright green florets; they add color and crunch to your bake.
Pasta (Fusilli or Penne): Choose pasta shapes that hold sauce well; they create delightful bites of flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic delight.
Heavy Cream: Essential for a rich sauce; half-and-half can be used for a lighter twist if desired.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully into the sauce; avoid pre-grated varieties for maximum flavor.
Butter: A touch of butter enhances creaminess; opt for unsalted butter to control seasoning better.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning helps bring all flavors together—don’t forget these staples!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick spray so nothing sticks during baking.
Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until just al dente—about two minutes less than package instructions say. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Chicken and Broccoli: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown—about six minutes—then toss in broccoli florets for another three minutes.
Create the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—around thirty seconds. Pour in heavy cream while stirring constantly until heated through—almost boiling. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
Combine Everything Together: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with chicken, broccoli, and sauce until everything is well coated. Transfer this glorious mixture into your greased baking dish.
Bake Until Bubbling: Cover the dish with foil and bake for about twenty minutes. Remove foil during the last five minutes to allow the top to brown slightly—a perfect finish!
Now you’ve mastered this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake! Enjoy every cheesy bite while basking in the compliments from family or friends.
You Must Know
- This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a creamy, cheesy delight that transforms meal times into a cozy experience
- The combination of tender chicken and vibrant broccoli creates a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds
- Perfect for family dinners, it’s deliciously satisfying
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking your chicken until golden brown, then boil pasta while preparing the Alfredo sauce to save time and enhance flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or add garlic and onion to the sauce for an extra flavor burst.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always season your chicken well before cooking to deepen the flavors
- Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for a creamier sauce
- Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should stay slightly crisp for texture and color
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter mingled with the scent of baked goodness, making every bite memorable.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli in Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain excess water before adding it to the mix.
How can I make this dish lighter?
Consider using low-fat milk or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream in the sauce.
What sides pair well with Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake?
Garlic bread or a fresh green salad complement this rich dish beautifully.
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a comforting, creamy dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta in a rich Alfredo sauce. This delightful bake is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, filling your home with irresistible aromas. With each bite, you’ll enjoy a blend of flavors and textures that create lasting memories around the dinner table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 8 oz fusilli or penne pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown (about 6 minutes). Add broccoli and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (30 seconds). Pour in heavy cream while stirring; heat until almost boiling. Mix in grated Parmesan until melted.
- Combine cooked pasta with the chicken, broccoli, and sauce; transfer to the greased baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to brown the top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Try swapping chicken for turkey or adding sautéed onions for extra flavor. For lighter options, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat milk.