Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a comforting dish that brings together the rich and creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta, all baked to perfection with a crispy topping. This hearty meal is the epitome of comfort food, combining savory flavors with the perfect balance of textures—from the creamy, cheesy interior to the golden, crunchy topping. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family, hosting a potluck, or simply craving something indulgent, this bake will quickly become a favorite
Ingredients and Quantities:
For the Casserole:
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (use rotisserie or leftover chicken for convenience)
2 cups broccoli florets, steamed until tender
12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Crispy Topping:
1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Tips for Success:
Pre-cook the broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli until just tender to avoid overcooking during baking. This step ensures the broccoli remains vibrant green and perfectly cooked in the final dish.
Cook pasta al dente: Slightly undercook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
Customize the topping: Feel free to add herbs like dried thyme, crushed garlic, or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
Make it lighter: You can substitute the Alfredo sauce with a lightened version or use a mix of heavy cream and chicken broth for a healthier option.
How to Make It:
1. Prepare the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Begin by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Steam the broccoli until tender but still a vibrant green color. This should take just a few minutes—be careful not to overcook it.
2. Assemble the Bake: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli. Add the Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated in the creamy sauce.
Transfer this mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly, making sure the ingredients are distributed throughout the pan.
3. Make the Crispy Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Mix until the breadcrumbs are fully coated in the butter, making sure they will crisp up nicely when baked.
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole. This crispy topping will give the bake its signature crunch, making it the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
4. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbling. The cheese should be melted, and the edges of the casserole should be slightly crispy.
For an even crispier topping, you can broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time. Be sure to watch closely to avoid burning the topping.
5. Serve: Once the casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to cut into portions.
Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Description:
This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines rich Alfredo sauce with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta. The crunchy breadcrumb topping adds the perfect textural contrast to the creamy filling, making each bite a delightful experience. The layers of flavor come together to create a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate—perfect for family dinners or any special occasion when you want something indulgent and filling.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
Conclusion and Recommendation:
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake with a Crispy Topping is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together everything you love in a single, easy-to-make casserole. The creamy, cheesy filling pairs perfectly with the golden, crunchy topping, making it a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or for a special gathering, this dish will surely satisfy everyone’s cravings. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh salad and garlic bread.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy every creamy, crispy bite. Let me know how it turns out! 🍽️