Creamy, Cheesy Comfort with a Golden Cheese Crown
This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a rich, comforting dish that layers tender diced chicken, steamed broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta in a silky Parmesan-cream sauce—then tops it all with a golden, crispy mozzarella crust. With Italian seasoning, garlic, and optional heat from red pepper flakes—it’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or whenever you want something indulgent yet easy to make.
A modern twist on the classic Alfredo comfort—now baked to golden perfection!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🍗 Tender Chicken Base: Diced and simmered into the sauce for juicy, creamy bites.
- 🥦 Fresh Broccoli Crunch: Steamed just enough to keep its color and texture without sogginess.
- 🧀 Alfredo Sauce Magic: Heavy cream and Parmesan melt into every noodle for ultra-rich flavor.
- 🧄 Garlic & Herb Infusion: Aromatic garlic, Italian seasoning, and optional chili heat elevate every layer.
- ⏱️ Quick Assembly: From stove to oven in under 40 minutes—ideal for weeknight cravings.
Ingredients (Serves 6):
For the Alfredo Bake:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts , diced (or shredded rotisserie chicken for shortcut)
- 1 lb (450g) penne pasta (or elbow macaroni, fusilli, or gluten-free option)
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets (steamed or blanched – not soggy!)
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan umami boost)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar, Gouda, or vegan cheese for topping)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or butter for richer base)
- 2 cloves garlic , minced (or ½ tsp garlic paste for convenience)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or oregano/thyme for shortcut)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional – or smoked paprika for depth)
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro , chopped (for garnish – optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Pan
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) .
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray—set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente (about 8–10 minutes) .
Drain and set aside while preparing the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic & Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat , heat olive oil .
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add diced chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked (165°F internal temp ).
Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same pan, reduce heat to low .
Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes (if using)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Simmer for 3–4 minutes , stirring constantly, until thickened and glossy.
Tip: For extra richness, add 1 tbsp butter at the end of cooking.
Step 5: Blanch or Steam the Broccoli
Steam broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes , or microwave in a covered bowl with 2 tbsp water for the same time.
Drain and rinse with cold water to preserve color.
Step 6: Combine Everything Like a Pro
In the prepared baking dish, mix:
- Cooked pasta
- Creamy Alfredo sauce
- Diced chicken
- Steamed broccoli
Toss gently or stir to coat everything evenly.
Smooth the top with a spatula before adding the final layer.
Step 7: Top with Mozzarella & Bake
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes , or until bubbly and lightly golden.
Let cool slightly before serving.
Step 8: Garnish & Serve Warm
Top with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Pair with:
- Garlic bread or toasted baguette
- A crisp green salad or roasted tomatoes
- Or enjoy straight from the pan for full comfort mode
Each bite brings together:
- Silky, cheesy Alfredo swirls
- Tender, seasoned chicken pockets
- Bright, crisp broccoli bites
- Stretchy, golden cheese finish
- And that classic creamy-parm charm
Tips for Success:
- 🧈 Use Room-Temp Dairy: Ensures smooth blending—cold cheese can clump.
- 🥣 Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Keep it bright green and slightly firm for best texture.
- 🥟 Pasta Hack: Undercook pasta by 1 minute—residual baking time finishes softening it.
- 🧁 Cheese Swap Magic: Try Gruyère, fontina, or vegan mozzarella for different finishes.
- ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Assemble and refrigerate overnight—bake fresh when ready.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with crusty bread, pickles, or coleslaw for contrast.
- Great with white wine, lemon water, or a cold glass of milk.
- Ideal for weeknight dinners, lunch boxes, or solo indulgence .
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 6 – approximate):
(With regular cream and cheese – per plate)
- Calories: ~600 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Fat: ~35g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~5g
This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake proves that creamy dishes don’t need to be plain to be unforgettable. With its tender chicken, vibrant greens, and golden cheese crown—it’s a must-bake for lovers of bold, comforting handhelds.
Additional Notes:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use GF pasta and ensure all sauces are certified gluten-free.
- Vegan Swap: Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms, use plant-based cream and cheeses.
- Storage Tip: Store leftovers in foil-wrapped portions—reheat gently in oven for best texture.
- Flavor Hack: Add Worcestershire, hot sauce, or truffle oil to the sauce for gourmet flair.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Spoon into muffin tins and bake individual portions for grab-and-go meals.
Pro Tip: For extra golden crunch , broil the top for 2–3 minutes after baking.
Serving Idea: Layer with roasted red peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added depth.
History Fun: Alfredo sauce was born in Rome—but this baked, American-style version gives it a modern twist with chicken, broccoli, and mozzarella love.
Optional Variations:
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Version
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What to Add
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Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole Cups
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Spoon mixture into greased muffin tins and bake until golden.
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Spicy Alfredo Bake
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Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or chipotle sauce for kick.
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Cheesy Chicken Mac & Cheese Alfredo
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Mix in elbow pasta and extra cheddar for hybrid dish.
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Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Style
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Layer with ricotta and mozzarella for baked lasagna fusion.
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One-Pan Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
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Skip broccoli and bake with extra Parmesan and bacon.
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Vegetarian Alfredo Bake
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Replace chicken with portobello mushrooms or cauliflower.
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Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Bread
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Fill hollowed loaf and bake for pull-apart style
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Final Serving Touches:
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze or honey
- Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers
- Serve with roasted garlic bread or dipping sauce
- Pair with a dollop of sour cream or salsa verde
This Alfredo Bake isn’t just dinner—it’s a moment of joy wrapped in golden cheese, tender chicken, and creamy richness. So take your time, close your eyes, and savor every luscious, cheesy bite.
