Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe for a Cozy Family Dinner

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a classic comfort food that delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite. This hearty casserole combines tender chicken breasts, fresh broccoli florets, and pasta in a luscious Alfredo sauce, baked until bubbly and golden. It’s an ideal dish for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prepping because it’s easy to make and thoroughly satisfying.

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What Makes This Chicken Alfredo Bake So Special?

This recipe takes the beloved flavors of Alfredo pasta and transforms them into a one-dish meal that’s both nourishing and indulgent. The creamy homemade or store-bought Alfredo sauce clings to perfectly cooked penne or rotini pasta, tender chicken, and vibrant green broccoli. The touch of garlic powder enhances the savory notes, while Parmesan cheese melted on top adds a delicious golden crust.

Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers, this dish is customizable and forgiving perfect for home cooks of any skill level.

Emma Franklin

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

A cozy and creamy family-style casserole made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and pasta coated in rich Alfredo sauce, baked until bubbly and golden brown. The perfect comforting dinner for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
Calories: 430

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
  • 2 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • skillet
  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • oven
  • cutting board and knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for even baking.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and cut into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, and Alfredo sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
  5. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
  6. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and the top turns golden brown.
  7. Let the casserole rest a few minutes before serving for easier slicing and better texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 430kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 28gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 480mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 480IUVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 260mgIron: 2.1mg

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for richer flavor and avoid overcooking the broccoli to keep its color and crunch. You can prepare the bake a day ahead for easy meal prep or top with breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Comforting and creamy: Rich Alfredo sauce combined with chicken and broccoli creates a warm, satisfying meal.

Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples and easy-to-find fresh ingredients.

Family-friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike who love cheesy casseroles.

Quick and streamlined: Ready in just 45 minutes from prep to table.

Versatile meal: Works great for dinner parties, potlucks, or leftover lunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Prepare Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake Recipe for a Cozy Family Dinner

  • 3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (around 1.5 pounds)
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta
  • 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil (for cooking chicken)

Ingredient Substitutions and Add-ons

Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.

Swap broccoli with cauliflower or mixed vegetables for variety.

Add red pepper flakes for a little spice.

For a lighter version, substitute Alfredo sauce with a creamy Greek yogurt sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Chicken Alfredo Bake

  • Preheat and prepare: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and achieves that golden top.
  • Cook the chicken: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook the chicken approximately 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and chop into bite-sized pieces.
  • Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  • Mix the casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken pieces, fresh broccoli florets, and Alfredo sauce. Stir well to ensure everything is coated.
  • Assemble and bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden and slightly crispy.
  • Serve and enjoy: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to portion.

Cooking Tips for Best Results

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese if possible for a richer flavor.

Do not overcook broccoli; it should retain a bright green color and slight firmness.

For meal prep, assemble the casserole a day ahead and bake fresh when ready to serve.

Add breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy topping.

Nutritional Information (Per 1 Cup Serving)

Calories: 430 kcal

Protein: 28 g

Fat: 20 g (Saturated Fat: 10 g, Unsaturated Fat: 8 g)

Carbohydrates: 38 g

Fiber: 3 g

Sugar: 3 g

Sodium: 750 mg

Cholesterol: 90 mg

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.

Serving Suggestions and Garnishes

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for color.

Serve alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread.

Pair with a light white wine or sparkling grape juice for special occasions.

Variations to Try at Home

Swap chicken for cooked shrimp or turkey for variety.

Add sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions for an earthy flavor.

Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for tangy notes.

Cultural Note

Alfredo sauce originated in Rome, Italy, and traditionally included butter, Parmesan cheese, and pasta water. This Americanized bake version adds protein and veggies, making it a wholesome meal rooted in Italian comfort but adapted for family-style dining.