Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Family Dinners

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. As I prepared this recipe for the first time, I was instantly reminded of family gatherings where creamy pasta dishes were the star of the show. This particular bake combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich Alfredo sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible.

Originating from Italian cuisine, Alfredo sauce has become a beloved staple in many households, and when paired with chicken and broccoli, it transforms into a hearty meal that everyone can enjoy. People love this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake not only for its creamy goodness but also for its convenience; it’s a one-dish wonder that makes cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. So, let’s dive into the delicious world of Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Pasta and Broccoli

1. **Cook the Fettuccine**: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 2. **Add the Broccoli**: When the pasta is about 2 minutes away from being done, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This will blanch the broccoli, keeping it vibrant and slightly crisp. Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked, drain them in a colander and set aside.

Making the Alfredo Sauce

3. **Prepare the Sauce**: If you’re using store-bought Alfredo sauce, you can skip this step. If you want to make your own, melt 1/2 cup of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 cups of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.

Combining Ingredients

4. **Mix the Chicken and Pasta**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, drained fettuccine, and broccoli. Pour in the Alfredo sauce and sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. If you like a little heat, add the red pepper flakes. Gently toss everything together until well combined. 5. **Prepare the Baking Dish**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Assembling the Bake

6. **Layer the Mixture**: Pour the chicken, broccoli, and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. 7. **Add Cheese**: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. Then, add the remaining 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella for an extra cheesy finish.

Baking the Dish

8. **Bake**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden brown. 9. **Broil for Extra Crispiness**: If you like a crispy top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Serving the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake

10. **Garnish and Serve**: Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for about 5 minutes. This will help the layers set a bit. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. 11. **Enjoy**: Serve the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake warm, either as a main dish or alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep for the week ahead.

Storage and Reheating Tips

12. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the bake before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. 13. **Reheating**: To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. If reheating the entire dish, cover with foil and bake at

Conclusion:

In summary, this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner game. The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp or even make it vegetarian by using mushrooms or tofu. For an extra kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of parmesan on top before baking. I encourage you to give this recipe a go and make it your own. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or just treating yourself, I promise it will be a hit. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Happy cooking!

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