If you love comfort food that feels like a warm hug in every bite, then this Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta all come together in a delightful casserole that’s as gorgeous on the table as it is delicious. It’s the kind of dish that’s effortlessly impressive, yet simple enough for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with loved ones. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will be on repeat in your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, combining to create a rich, flavorful dish without any fuss. From the fresh broccoli that adds a pop of vibrant green and healthy crunch, to the creamy Parmesan Alfredo sauce that envelops everything in cheesy goodness — these simple staples are what make this bake truly irresistible.
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cubed for even cooking and tender, juicy bites.
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets: Adds color, texture, and a nutritional boost.
- 8 oz farfalle or penne pasta: Holds sauce beautifully and adds a hearty base.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to a silky, indulgent Alfredo sauce.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharpness and depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs to elevate every bite.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing to add a subtle fruity richness.
How to Make Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil so nothing sticks during baking. This prep step is key for an easy cleanup and beautiful presentation later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Cube those chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, season with salt and pepper, then heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken cubes until they turn a lovely golden brown and are cooked through. This adds rich flavor and ensures every chicken bite is juicy and tender.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Using the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and fresh broccoli florets. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, just until the broccoli becomes bright green and slightly tender. This keeps the veggie crispness intact and lets the garlic release its delicious aroma.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your farfalle or penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Don’t forget to save a small cup of pasta water before draining; it’s perfect if you need to loosen up your sauce later.
Step 5: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
On low heat, gently warm the heavy cream in a saucepan. Slowly stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the cream. Add Italian seasoning along with salt and pepper to taste. The result is a luscious sauce that perfectly coats every ingredient.
Step 6: Combine and Bake
In your prepared baking dish, mix the cooked pasta, golden chicken, vibrant broccoli, and the creamy Alfredo sauce. Stir everything until it’s all beautifully coated. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water for the perfect consistency. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is bubbly and just turning golden brown, signaling it’s ready to wow everyone.
How to Serve Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra freshly grated Parmesan or some chopped fresh parsley adds a lovely finish and a burst of color. For a little extra zing, a dash of red pepper flakes can bring subtle heat that perfectly balances the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
While this bake is a full meal on its own, you can brighten it up with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread to mop up every last bit of that delicious Alfredo sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the bake in individual ramekins or mini cocottes. Layer some crispy breadcrumb topping for extra crunch, or garnish with toasted pine nuts to surprise your guests with extra texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a perfect next-day lunch or dinner that reheats beautifully.
Freezing
This dish freezes well! Place uncooked mixture in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through and bubbly again. You can also microwave single servings, just be sure to cover to keep moisture locked in.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle or penne works wonderfully, feel free to swap in rotini, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni depending on what you have on hand. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t get mushy during baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more broccoli or your favorite veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers. You can also add cooked plant-based protein for extra richness.
Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making my own?
You can, though making it from scratch really elevates the dish. Store-bought sauce works in a pinch, just taste and adjust the seasoning to make it your own.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should be golden on the outside and no longer pink inside. Cutting into a piece to check or using a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C)—are both good ways to confirm doneness.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Adding sautéed mushrooms, a touch of nutmeg in the sauce, or fresh basil leaves at the end can all bring wonderful new layers of flavor without overpowering the classic Alfredo vibe.
Final Thoughts
The Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe is a shining example of how comfort food can be both simple and spectacular. It brings warmth, ease, and rich flavors to your dinner table in less than an hour. Don’t wait for a special occasion to make it—go ahead and fill your kitchen with this cozy, crowd-pleasing bake today. Your family and friends will thank you for turning an ordinary meal night into something extraordinary!
Print
Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake combines tender sautéed chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich and creamy homemade Alfredo sauce. Baked to bubbly, golden perfection, this comforting casserole is an easy weeknight dinner that serves six and is sure to satisfy the whole family.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
Pasta
- 8 oz farfalle or penne pasta
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
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Cube the chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add vegetables: To the same skillet, add the minced garlic and broccoli florets. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
- Cook pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the farfalle or penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce if needed.
- Prepare sauce: In a saucepan over low heat, warm the heavy cream. Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and bake: In the prepared baking dish, mix the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, broccoli, and creamy Alfredo sauce until evenly coated. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs if preferred, but cooking times may vary slightly.
- For extra cheesy topping, sprinkle additional Parmesan or mozzarella before baking.
- Let the bake rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
