Imagine a dish that combines the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and melted cheese in one mouthwatering casserole. This Alfredo Chicken Broccoli Bake is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dinner that will have your family begging for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family gatherings, this recipe promises to be your new go-to comfort food that's both delicious and surprisingly simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- If not already prepared, cook the chicken by either poaching, grilling, or using leftover rotisserie chicken. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
- Steam the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked pasta, and Alfredo sauce. Gently mix to ensure even coating.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use rotisserie chicken or season your chicken with herbs like thyme or rosemary before shredding.
- Don't overcook the broccoli - keep it bright green and slightly crisp to maintain nutrients and texture.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor profile compared to pre-packaged options.
- If you want to add extra depth, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- For a golden, crispy top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- This recipe is incredibly versatile - feel free to swap broccoli with cauliflower or add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
