The perfect combination of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli comes together in this comforting baked pasta dish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or planning ahead for the week, this casserole-style meal is a crowd-pleaser that brings both flavor and warmth to your table.
What sets this Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo apart is the luxurious sauce made from scratch no jar needed. With bubbling cheese on top and savory bites throughout, this dish is ideal for any evening where only cozy, satisfying food will do. It’s as good for a weeknight dinner as it is for guests or meal prepping in advance.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
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3 cups broccoli florets, steamed until tender-crisp
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8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta, cooked
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2 tablespoons butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups whole milk
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
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½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
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In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to make a roux.
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Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5-6 minutes.
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Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and Italian seasoning. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, and the Alfredo sauce. Stir to coat evenly.
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Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella.
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Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
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Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 630 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
A Comfort Food Classic Reimagined
When it comes to hearty, comforting meals that feel like a warm hug, nothing beats a baked pasta dish especially when it’s loaded with creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli. This Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo isn’t just another pasta casserole it’s a rich, soul-soothing meal that blends classic Italian-inspired flavors with easy, family-friendly preparation. Baked to golden perfection, it delivers the ideal balance of cheesy indulgence and nourishing vegetables.
This recipe takes the universally loved Alfredo sauce and elevates it by combining it with lean protein and wholesome green veggies. Broccoli offers a slight crunch and fresh flavor that complements the richness of the cream and cheese, while chunks of roasted or sautéed chicken make it satisfying enough to stand on its own as a complete dinner. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal, yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party or family gathering.
Why This Baked Alfredo Is So Popular
What makes this Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo such a hit with home cooks and eaters alike? The secret lies in its versatility and its ability to strike the perfect balance between rich, cheesy decadence and nourishing ingredients.
First, there’s the Alfredo sauce a timeless favorite made from butter, garlic, cream, and plenty of grated cheese (often Parmesan or a combination of Italian cheeses). It brings that luscious, velvety texture that binds all the elements together in one creamy, delicious bite. The sauce coats every strand of pasta or forkful of chicken and broccoli, creating a consistent flavor in every bite.
Then there’s the broccoli. It’s not just thrown in for color broccoli adds a pleasant contrast in both taste and texture. When baked, it becomes tender but retains a bit of bite, which plays beautifully against the soft pasta and tender chicken.
Finally, the chicken makes this dish more than just a side or a vegetarian bake. You can use pre-cooked chicken, rotisserie leftovers, or even freshly grilled chicken breasts. The protein content ensures it’s a filling, satisfying main dish that appeals to even the heartiest of appetites.
Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved
If you’re looking for a dinner that pleases both adults and picky eaters, this is it. Kids love the creamy sauce and the cheesy topping, and many parents have found that this is one of the few ways they can get their children to willingly eat their broccoli. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in a few more vegetables without sacrificing flavor.
For families on the go, this recipe is a lifesaver. It’s easy to prep in advance and keep in the fridge until ready to bake. It also freezes well, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeks. Just assemble, cover, freeze, and bake when needed. Whether you’re a parent, a student, or just someone who loves batch cooking, this Alfredo bake makes meal planning a breeze.
Customizable for Every Dietary Need
Another reason to love this Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is how easily it can be customized. Prefer gluten-free? Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta or even spiralized veggies like zucchini. Want to cut down on dairy? Use a dairy-free Alfredo sauce or substitute with blended cashews or plant-based cream alternatives. Watching your calories? Use light cream or Greek yogurt and skip the extra cheese on top.
It’s also a great canvas for additional add-ins. Try throwing in some mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Want more protein? Toss in some bacon crumbles or swap chicken for turkey. Prefer seafood? Shrimp makes a fantastic alternative in this recipe.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This dish transitions seamlessly from a casual weeknight dinner to a cozy holiday meal. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad and some crusty garlic bread, and you have a restaurant-quality meal at home. Hosting a potluck? This bake travels well and can be easily doubled or tripled to serve a crowd.
It’s also a smart choice for meal trains, baby showers, or any event where comfort food is appreciated. There’s something universally appealing about a bubbling casserole dish emerging from the oven with golden cheese on top warm, inviting, and ready to feed your favorite people.
Nutritional Benefits in a Cheesy Package
While Alfredo pasta doesn’t always scream “healthy,” this recipe brings a bit of balance to the indulgence. Chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle repair and satiety. Broccoli is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. By controlling your sauce ingredients at home, you also reduce the sodium and preservatives typically found in store-bought or restaurant versions.
Even with the rich sauce, this dish can be part of a wholesome diet especially when paired with a lighter side salad or roasted vegetables. Portion control is key, and because it’s so filling, a moderate serving goes a long way.
Tips for the Best Alfredo Bake
To make sure your Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo comes out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
- Don’t overcook the pasta. Cook it just shy of al dente since it will continue to soften in the oven.
- Use freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect how well they melt.
- Steam or blanch your broccoli first. This helps it cook evenly and prevents it from being too crunchy or underdone in the finished dish.
- Cover while baking, then uncover to brown. Start with foil to keep the moisture in, then remove the foil during the last 10–15 minutes for a golden, bubbly top.
- Let it rest before serving. Giving the bake a few minutes to settle helps the sauce thicken and makes it easier to serve clean slices.
Conclusion: A Bake Worth Repeating
In a world of trendy one-pan meals and 15-minute dinners, there’s still something timeless and rewarding about a classic baked dish like Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo. It’s cozy, comforting, and endlessly customizable truly the kind of meal that becomes a staple in any home cook’s rotation.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, preparing a week of lunches, or bringing a dish to share, this recipe checks every box. It’s rich without being overwhelming, hearty without being heavy, and above all, packed with flavor. Give it a try and discover why this baked Alfredo continues to be a crowd-pleasing favorite across generations.