Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Family Dinners

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, all baked to perfection. This recipe has its roots in Italian-American cuisine, where the classic Alfredo sauce was originally created in Rome. Over the years, it has evolved into various comforting casseroles, and the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a beloved favorite in many households.

What I love most about this dish is its incredible taste and texture; the creamy sauce envelops the chicken and broccoli, creating a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and indulgent. Plus, it’s a convenient one-dish meal that makes weeknight dinners a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is sure to impress with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Pasta and Broccoli

1. **Cook the Pasta**: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 2. **Add the Broccoli**: About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This will blanch the broccoli, keeping it vibrant and slightly crisp. Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked, drain them in a colander and set aside.

Making the Alfredo Sauce

3. **Prepare the Sauce**: If you’re using store-bought Alfredo sauce, you can skip this step. However, if you want to make your own, here’s a quick recipe: – In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup of butter. – Add 2 cups of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. – Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper to taste. – Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.

Combining Ingredients

4. **Mix the Chicken and Sauce**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, drained pasta, and broccoli. Pour in the Alfredo sauce, and sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. If you’re using Italian seasoning, add that too. 5. **Stir Well**: Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently mix everything together until the pasta, chicken, and broccoli are evenly coated with the sauce. Make sure there are no dry spots and that the sauce is well distributed.

Assembling the Bake

6. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your bake cooks evenly and thoroughly. 7. **Prepare the Baking Dish**: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. 8. **Transfer the Mixture**: Pour the chicken, broccoli, and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with your spatula. 9. **Add Cheese**: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella for an extra cheesy finish.

Baking the Dish

10. **Cover and Bake**: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. 11. **Uncover and Brown**: After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.

Serving the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake

12. **Let it Rest**: Once out of the oven, let the dish sit for about 5-10 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken slightly and make it easier to serve. 13. **Garnish**: If desired, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and added flavor. 14. **Serve**: Scoop out generous portions onto plates and enjoy your delicious Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake! This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some garlic bread.

Storage and Reheating Tips

15. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-

Conclusion:

In summary, this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner routine. The creamy, rich Alfredo sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also comforting. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies for those picky eaters in your life! For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this bake with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to soak up that luscious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, or even swapping out the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake a try and make it your own. Once you’ve whipped it up, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, and any tips you might have in the comments below. Let’s spread the love for this delightful dish together! Happy cooking! Print