How to Make the Best Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you ready for a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug on a chilly evening? Today, I’m thrilled to share with you my secret to the creamiest, most flavorful Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake you’ve ever tasted. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves easy pasta recipes and quick family dinners. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this mouthwatering adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A perfect blend of creamy garlic pasta, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli.
• Ready in just 30 minutes—ideal for weeknight dinner ideas.
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand.
• Easily customizable to suit your family’s tastes.
• A satisfying, one-dish meal that’s both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake. Don’t worry if you’re missing something—most of these are pantry staples!

• 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

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is a breeze, but I’ll walk you through each step so you can feel confident every time you make it.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil. This ensures your dish won’t stick and adds a touch of flavor.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown (6-8 minutes). Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches if needed for even browning.
3. Add minced garlic and broccoli to the skillet; sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until broccoli is bright green. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the garlic and broccoli.
4. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente according to package instructions; drain but reserve some pasta water. Al dente pasta holds up perfectly in the creamy sauce.
5. In a saucepan, heat heavy cream and stir in Parmesan until melted; add Italian seasoning. This is where the magic happens—your creamy garlic pasta sauce comes to life!
6. Combine cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, broccoli, and creamy sauce in the baking dish; mix until well coated. If it feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top. You’ll know it’s done when it’s hot, cheesy, and irresistible!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tricks to take your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake to the next level:

• Use fresh broccoli for the best texture. If you prefer a softer texture, you can blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding it to the skillet.
• Don’t overcook the pasta. Al dente is key so it doesn’t become mushy in the oven.
• Add some heat with red pepper flakes if your family loves a little spice.
• Customize with your favorite protein. Shrimp or bacon would be delicious additions!

How to Serve

This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas to round it out:

• Garlic bread: Because everything is better with garlic bread!
• A fresh green salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the rich dish.
• Roasted vegetables: If you want to add more veggies, try my How to Make Roasted Parmesan Potatoes and Broccoli Perfectly recipe for a tasty side.

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it holds up. Here’s how to make it ahead and store leftovers:

• Make ahead: Prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake as instructed.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: While I recommend making this fresh for the best texture, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

And there you have it—a delicious, satisfying Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake that’s perfect for quick family dinners, weeknight meals, or even a special occasion. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. I hope you and your family enjoy it as much as mine does!

Looking for more easy pasta recipes? Check out my How to Make Creamy Garlic Mushrooms (Easy Recipe) for another quick and delicious meal idea. Or, if you’re a broccoli lover like me, you’ll love my How to Make the Best Cheesy Broccoli in 15 Minutes recipe for a quick side dish. Happy cooking, friends! 🥄