Description
This irresistible Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake combines tender sautéed chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a creamy homemade Alfredo sauce. Baked to bubbly perfection, this comforting dish makes a perfect family-friendly dinner that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Vegetables
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta & Dairy
- 8 oz farfalle or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings & Oils
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Cube the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Sauté the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: To the same skillet, add the minced garlic and broccoli florets. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
- Cook Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the farfalle or penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Prepare Sauce: In a saucepan over low heat, warm the heavy cream. Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Bake: In the prepared baking dish, mix together the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, broccoli, and creamy Alfredo sauce until everything is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.
Notes
- For extra cheesy topping, sprinkle additional Parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the top before baking.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- If you prefer a lower-fat version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Make sure not to overcook the broccoli during sautéing to retain some crispness and color.
