Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake! This creamy, cheesy dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, each bite is a delightful explosion of rich flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: The rich and creamy Alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken and fresh broccoli.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish comes together quickly.
- Versatile Meal: Great for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck gathering.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness makes it appealing to kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving for convenience.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake requires just a few essential tools that make cooking easier.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Baking dish (9×13 inch)
- Saucepan
- Cooking pot for pasta
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and vegetables evenly without sticking.
- Baking dish: Ensures even baking of the Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake while allowing it to bubble nicely.
- Saucepan: Perfect for melting the cream and cheese together smoothly.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
For the Pasta
- 8 oz farfalle or penne pasta
For the Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown. This should take about 6-8 minutes.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Broccoli
Add minced garlic and broccoli florets to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli turns bright green.
Step 4: Prepare the Pasta
Cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain but reserve some pasta water for later use.
Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a saucepan, heat heavy cream over low heat. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted completely. Add Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
In your greased baking dish, combine cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, broccoli, and creamy sauce. Mix thoroughly until everything is well coated.
Step 7: Bake It!
Bake your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and slightly golden on top. Enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- A warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Add a Fresh Salad
- A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the bake.
Serve with Steamed Vegetables
- Complement the dish with steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans for added color and nutrition.
Offer Extra Parmesan Cheese
- Set out freshly grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want an extra cheesy touch.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped parsley or basil can add a burst of flavor and brighten up the presentation.
How to Perfect Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
To achieve the best results with your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and broccoli will enhance the flavors and textures of the dish.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking your pasta just until al dente ensures it retains some bite after baking.
- Don’t Overcook Chicken: Sauté chicken until golden but not fully cooked, as it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Adding a splash of reserved pasta water can help adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try mixing different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a unique twist on flavor.
- Allow it to Rest: Letting the bake sit for a few minutes after removing from the oven allows it to set for easier serving.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Complement your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake with tasty side dishes that enhance the meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus provides a delicious contrast to the creamy bake.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze offer a sweet and savory flavor profile.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs is a healthy, protein-packed complement.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings sweetness and crunch to balance out the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken and broccoli properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy in the bake. Aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Ignoring the cheese quality: Using pre-grated cheese can result in a grainy sauce. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for a creamier texture.
- Neglecting to mix well: If you don’t combine the ingredients thoroughly, some portions may end up dry. Ensure everything is well-coated with the sauce before baking.
- Not letting it rest: Cutting into the bake immediately can cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for a few minutes after baking for better serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot. Use a microwave-safe dish.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I substitute in Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter option. Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers also enhances nutrition.
How do I ensure my Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is creamy?
Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key. Also, make sure not to overcook your pasta so that it absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly.
Can I prepare Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add extra baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Is Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake healthy?
While it’s comforting and delicious, you can make it healthier by using whole wheat pasta or adding more vegetables like carrots or zucchini.
Final Thoughts
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings. Its creamy texture paired with tender chicken makes every bite satisfying. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or adjust the creaminess level to suit your taste!
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Indulge in the comforting warmth of Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake, a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy Alfredo sauce for a satisfying family meal. Baked to golden perfection, this cheesy pasta dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion—from cozy weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 8 oz farfalle or penne pasta
- 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 the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown (6-8 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and broccoli florets; sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green.
- Cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente; drain while reserving some pasta water.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth; add Italian seasoning.
- In the greased baking dish, combine cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, broccoli, and Alfredo sauce; mix well.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
