Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner option? Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is the perfect comfort food that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy Alfredo sauce. This hearty casserole is baked to perfection with a cheesy, golden top, making it a favorite for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients for Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

To make this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cooked and cubed
• 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets
• 1 lb of penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

1. Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli:
   • Start by boiling the penne pasta in salted water according to package instructions. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water to cook them until tender. Drain the pasta and broccoli and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Once cooked, cube the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, bring to a simmer, and let it cook for 3-5 minutes until it thickens. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, cubed chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Stir until everything is well-coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
5. Bake the Casserole:
   • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the casserole. For an added crunch, you can also sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and savory dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

• Creamy and Cheesy: The Alfredo sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, indulgent flavor that’s complemented by the mozzarella cheese on top.
• Packed with Protein and Veggies: With lean chicken and broccoli, this dish offers a balance of protein and fiber, making it a wholesome option for dinner.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy sauce and familiar flavors of chicken, pasta, and cheese make this a hit with children and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Option: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a day or two. Simply bake it when ready to serve.

Tips for Perfect Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables to the dish, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Customize the Cheese: You can substitute mozzarella with cheddar or add a little ricotta for a creamy twist.
• Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken from a previous meal. Simply shred or cube the leftover chicken and incorporate it into the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread. The rich, creamy texture of the dish contrasts nicely with the freshness of a salad or the crunch of toasted bread.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is a family-friendly, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It combines comforting flavors with a creamy sauce and wholesome ingredients, making it a dinner the whole family will love. Try it today, and watch it become a new favorite in your household!

Serving and Storage Tips for Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

Serving Tips:

1. Pair with Side Dishes:
   • This creamy casserole can be served alongside a variety of sides to complete the meal. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce. Alternatively, serve with garlic bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping.
2. Garnish for Extra Flavor:
   • For an added touch of flavor, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top before serving. A drizzle of extra Parmesan cheese or a dash of red pepper flakes can also elevate the dish.
3. Make it a One-Pot Meal:
   • This dish already includes protein (chicken), veggies (broccoli), and carbs (pasta), making it a complete meal. You won’t need much more than a side salad or bread to round out the meal.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerating Leftovers:
   • Allow the Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo to cool completely before storing it. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing for Later:
   • If you’d like to freeze the dish, place it in a tightly sealed container or freezer-safe bag after it has cooled. You can freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. If baking from frozen, it may take longer to cook (around 45 minutes to an hour), so check for bubbling sauce and melted cheese.
3. Reheating:
   • To reheat individual portions, you can microwave them in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until hot. If reheating the entire casserole, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.

By following these simple serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo stays fresh and tasty for days, or even enjoy it as a make-ahead meal for busy evenings!

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

• Absolutely! While penne pasta is commonly used, you can substitute it with any type of pasta you prefer, such as rigatoni, rotini, or even fettuccine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta you choose.

2. Can I make Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo ahead of time?

• Yes! This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. When ready to bake, preheat the oven and cook as directed, adding a few extra minutes if the casserole is cold from the fridge.

3. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

• Yes, frozen broccoli works just as well as fresh broccoli. Make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.

4. How can I make this dish lighter or healthier?

• To make this dish lighter, you can use reduced-fat or fat-free versions of the cream and cheese. You can also substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative like almond milk. Additionally, consider using whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.

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