Name: Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
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

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is the ultimate comfort food. With juicy, golden-brown chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, this dish offers all the flavors you crave in one pan. The addition of Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning gives it a savory depth, while the farfalle or penne pasta makes it a satisfying, complete meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and only takes about 45 minutes to bake, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without too much hassle.

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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). 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, about 6-8 minutes.
Add minced garlic and broccoli to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green.
Cook pasta in salted water until al dente according to package instructions; drain, but reserve some pasta water.
In a saucepan, heat heavy cream and stir in Parmesan until melted. Add Italian seasoning.
Combine cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, broccoli, and creamy sauce in the baking dish. Mix until well-coated.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Storage/Reheating

This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quicker option.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be a bit less rich and creamy.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or any other short pasta will work just as well.

4. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake ahead of time. Assemble it the day before and refrigerate it, then bake it when you’re ready to serve.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some hot sauce over the dish before baking for a spicy kick.

7. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time. Just add it to the skillet with the garlic and broccoli to heat through.

8. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Bake from frozen, but increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes.

9. Can I use a different cheese?

While Parmesan is traditional, you can also add mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Mozzarella will give it a nice gooey texture.

10. What should I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful broccoli, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. This bake is great for family dinners, meal prepping, or simply treating yourself to a satisfying homemade meal. Give this recipe a try, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation!