Description
Looking for easy dinner ideas that are creamy, cheesy, and family-approved? This Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a hearty blend of pasta, juicy chicken, and crisp-tender broccoli tossed in a rich homemade Alfredo sauce, then baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s the ultimate quick weeknight dinner, packed with protein and veggies—perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or comforting leftovers. Whether you're craving a healthy-ish comfort food or need dinner ideas that please picky eaters, this casserole-style dish delivers on all fronts.
Ingredients
12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded
3 cups broccoli florets, blanched
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, adding broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes. Drain and rinse with cool water.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes to make a light roux.
4. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking to avoid lumps. Simmer gently until slightly thickened.
5. Reduce heat and stir in Parmesan and 1 cup mozzarella until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
6. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, broccoli, chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crisp top if desired.
9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother melt and better flavor.
Make ahead by assembling the dish a day in advance and baking it fresh when ready.
Avoid overcooking the pasta to maintain texture through baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of bake
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Chicken Alfredo bake, broccoli pasta, easy dinner, casserole, weeknight dinner, chicken pasta recipe