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
Scale
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
