If you love creamy pasta dishes, then the Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is a meal that deserves a special spot on your dinner table. This comforting dish highlights tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and your favorite pasta, all enveloped in a luscious Alfredo sauce. When baked to perfection, the top becomes golden and bubbly, thanks to a generous blanket of gooey melted cheese. It’s an indulgent yet satisfying combination that’s great for feeding the whole family. Whether you are preparing a cozy weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress everyone, making it a repeat favorite. Plus, with a total cooking time of just 40 minutes, you can whip up this delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions for this creamy masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, blanched
- 2 cups cooked fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when it’s time to bake. While the oven heats, take a baking dish and grease it lightly to prevent sticking. Set this aside to prepare your dish. In a large mixing bowl, gather your lovely ingredients. First, combine the cooked and diced chicken breast with the blanched broccoli florets. Make sure these are evenly distributed. Next, add in the cooked fettuccine or your choice of pasta, giving everything a gentle stir to incorporate all the ingredients well.
Now, it’s time to enhance the flavor! Pour in the creamy Alfredo sauce and sprinkle a generous dash of salt and pepper. Mix until every piece of chicken, broccoli, and pasta is covered in this velvety sauce. The flavors should meld together beautifully.
Once everything is mixed, transfer the hearty mixture into the greased baking dish, ensuring that it’s evenly spread out. This will help with even cooking. Next, for that divine cheesy layer we all love, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese which will add a delightful tang. Both cheeses together will create a golden crust that is irresistible.
Now you’re ready to bake! Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and allow it to cook for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it—you’re looking for bubbly edges and golden cheese that indicates it’s perfectly cooked. Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few moments before serving. This will allow your dish to settle and make it easier to scoop out servings.
Variations
This Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo can be tailored to suit many tastes and dietary preferences. For a healthier twist, consider adding other seasonal vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter version, swap the regular Alfredo sauce for a homemade version using low-fat ingredients, or even a cauliflower-based sauce! For those who love a kick, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños into the mix will give it a nice heat.
If you’d like to switch up the protein, turkey, shrimp, or even a plant-based chicken alternative can work wonders in this dish, accommodating different diets. Cheese lovers can experiment with adding a blend of cheeses like gouda or Monterey jack for a unique flavor profile. Each variation maintains the essence of the original dish while allowing for a personal touch!
Cooking Notes
When planning to make this baked Alfredo, here are some essential tips to ensure success. First, don’t forget to adequately blanch the broccoli—this not only softens the florets but also enhances the dish’s color and texture. Make sure to have your pasta al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven.
Using a large mixing bowl for combining the ingredients is highly recommended to allow plenty of space for mixing without spilling. A good baking dish for this recipe is a medium-sized casserole dish which will retain heat well and evenly distribute cooking. If you want to add a bit of color to your dish, fresh parsley or basil as a garnish after it comes out of the oven always makes for a lovely presentation. And remember—allowing the dish to rest for several minutes before serving ensures that you’ll have perfect, slice-shaped servings!
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal even more enjoyable, consider pairing this Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo with a light side salad—perhaps a simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to complement the richness of the dish. Garlic bread is also a great companion, perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce. As for presentation, try serving in individual ramekins for an aesthetic touch; this way, everyone gets their own personal serving. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top not only adds flavor but also elevates the dish visually.
Tips
- Ensure pasta is al dente to prevent mushiness.
- Use high-quality Parmesan for enhanced flavor.
- Add vegetables when boiling the pasta for less hassle.
- Substitute fettuccine with gluten-free pasta if desired.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: Approximately 500
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
No doubt! You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just bake it when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for Alfredo sauce?
You can use a white cheese sauce, homemade cream sauce, or even a tomato-based sauce if you prefer.
How do I store leftovers?
Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, it can! Just be sure to layer plastic wrap before covering it tightly in foil for up to 2-3 months.
What type of cheese is best for baking?
Cheddar, Monterey jack, and mozzarella are great for baking due to their melting properties and flavor!
Conclusion
The Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is not only a creamy, dreamy combination of flavors but also an easy dish that anyone can whip up quickly! With its wonderful taste and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a staple for family dinners or casual gatherings. As you dive into this delightful meal, feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. What variations did you try? Did your family enjoy it? We’d love to hear how it turned out for you! If you liked this recipe, consider sharing it with friends and family—after all, sharing is caring!
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Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A creamy and comforting meal that highlights tender chicken and vibrant broccoli.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, blanched
- 2 cups cooked fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine chicken breast with blanched broccoli.
- Add cooked fettuccine and stir to mix well.
- Pour in Alfredo sauce and season with salt and pepper, mixing until coated.
- Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it rest for a few moments before serving.
Notes
For variations, consider adding other seasonal vegetables or using low-fat sauce alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 28 g