Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake! This creamy, cheesy dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, each bite is a delightful explosion of rich flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
- Creamy Comfort: The rich combination of heavy cream and Parmesan creates a sauce that’s irresistibly creamy.
- Vegetable Boost: Fresh broccoli adds color and nutrition, making this dish not only tasty but also healthy.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, ensuring that even picky eaters will enjoy every bite.
- Versatile Dish: You can easily customize it by adding other vegetables or using different types of pasta.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish (9×13 inch)
- Saucepan
- Colander
- Cooking spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and vegetables evenly while allowing for easy mixing.
- Baking dish: Ensures that your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake cooks uniformly in the oven.
- Colander: Perfect for draining pasta without losing any precious ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
For the Pasta
- 8 oz farfalle or penne pasta
For the Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Sauté cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown (about 6-8 minutes).
2. Once cooked, remove from heat.
Step 3: Add Broccoli and Garlic
Return the skillet to heat:
1. Add minced garlic to the pan with the cooked chicken.
2. Toss in broccoli florets; sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until broccoli is bright green.
Step 4: Prepare the Pasta
In a pot of salted water:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain pasta but reserve some of the cooking water for later use.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan over low heat:
1. Heat heavy cream until warm.
2. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan until melted.
3. Add Italian seasoning; mix well.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
In your greased baking dish:
1. Combine cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, broccoli, and creamy sauce.
2. Mix until everything is well coated.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven:
1. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top.
Enjoy this delightful Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake for dinner tonight!
How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Serving Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is all about enhancing its comforting flavors. Here are some delicious suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Garlic bread complements the creamy texture of the bake and adds a delightful crunch.
Add a Fresh Salad
- A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing contrast.
Serve with Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted vegetables like carrots or zucchini add color and nutrients, making your plate more vibrant and healthful.
Top with Extra Parmesan
- Sprinkling additional Parmesan cheese on top just before serving enhances the cheesy goodness of the dish.
Offer Red Pepper Flakes
- For those who enjoy a bit of heat, serving red pepper flakes on the side allows guests to customize their spice level.
Accompany with a Glass of White Wine
- A chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the creamy flavors of the Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake.
How to Perfect Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
To achieve the perfect Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake, follow these helpful tips to ensure every bite is delicious.
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and broccoli not only taste better but also create a more vibrant dish.
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Don’t overcook pasta: Cook pasta until al dente; it will absorb some sauce during baking without becoming mushy.
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Adjust seasoning: Always taste your sauce before mixing it in; adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.
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Consider adding other vegetables: Adding bell peppers or spinach can enhance nutrition while adding color to your dish.
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Let it rest after baking: Allowing the bake to rest for a few minutes before serving helps it set, making it easier to slice.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
When serving Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake, consider these delightful side dishes that complement its creamy flavor profile perfectly.
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Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch from romaine lettuce and creaminess from dressing, perfect alongside your bake.
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Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a nutritious green element that contrasts well with richness.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes offer an additional comfort food option to pair with your main dish.
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Bruschetta: This appetizer made from toasted bread topped with tomatoes brings freshness before diving into the hearty bake.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring earthy flavors that balance out the creaminess of your pasta bake.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a pop of sweetness, making it an appealing side for family dinners.
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Macaroni Salad: A tangy macaroni salad serves as a fun twist alongside your alfredo dish while keeping things light.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich chicken alfredo bake, offering a sweet finish to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Using overcooked pasta: If you cook your pasta too long, it will become mushy in the bake. Always aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Not seasoning adequately: Skipping on salt and pepper can lead to a bland dish. Make sure to season each component, especially the chicken and pasta.
- Ignoring the cream sauce consistency: A runny sauce can make your bake soupy. Ensure your heavy cream thickens properly with the cheese before mixing.
- Skipping the baking time check: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your dish towards the end of baking. Look for a bubbly and golden top for best results.
- Forgetting to grease the baking dish: A greased dish prevents sticking and ensures easy serving. Always coat it well with olive oil or cooking spray.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
- Allow the bake to cool completely before freezing.
- Use a freezer-safe container for storage.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot, about 2-3 minutes total.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or water if needed, stirring until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake:
Can I use frozen broccoli in Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just thaw it first and drain excess water before sautéing.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
You can use half-and-half or milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch for a lighter option.
How do I make Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the chicken for an extra kick.
Can I prepare Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it a day ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.
Final Thoughts
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is not just delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or using various types of cheese. This dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep for busy weeks ahead. Give it a try, and enjoy every comforting bite!
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake, a deliciously creamy and cheesy dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta all baked to perfection. This family-friendly casserole is perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, providing a satisfying meal that even the pickiest eaters will love. With a quick preparation time and customizable ingredients, this Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cubed
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 8 oz farfalle or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown (6-8 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Add minced garlic and broccoli florets to the skillet; sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until broccoli is bright green.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, drain and reserve some cooking water.
- In a saucepan over low heat, warm heavy cream; stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add Italian seasoning.
- In the baking dish, combine cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, broccoli, and sauce; mix well.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
