The dish combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, and vibrant broccoli coated in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese. The flavor-packed casserole is baked to golden perfection, making it irresistible for cheese and pasta lovers.
This comforting and hearty bake is ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also offers a perfect balance of creamy indulgence and a healthy touch with fresh broccoli. It’s a satisfying meal that everyone will want to come back to for seconds!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 2 cups (280 g) cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups (200 g) fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cups (720 ml) Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
- Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Steam the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still bright green.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven, let cool for 5 minutes, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
History and Background of Alfredo Sauce
Alfredo sauce originated in Rome, Italy, in the early 20th century. It was invented by Alfredo di Lelio, who first created the sauce to help his wife regain her appetite after giving birth. Originally, the dish consisted of just fettuccine, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Over time, it evolved into the creamy, rich sauce we know today, often enhanced with cream and served with a variety of proteins like chicken or seafood.
Adding broccoli to the mix brings a modern, health-conscious twist to this traditional dish, combining nutrition and flavor in a single casserole.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is a delightful mix of indulgence and nutrition:
- Chicken: A lean source of protein, chicken helps build and repair muscles and keeps you feeling fuller longer.
- Broccoli: Rich in vitamins C and K, this cruciferous vegetable adds fiber, antioxidants, and a fresh balance to the creamy pasta.
- Cheese and Alfredo Sauce: While these add richness, they also provide calcium, essential for healthy bones and teeth. For a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cheese or a lighter Alfredo sauce.
Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
- Pasta: Cook your pasta just until al dente. This ensures it doesn’t overcook during baking and maintains a pleasant texture.
- Broccoli: Lightly steam the broccoli before mixing it into the casserole to ensure it’s tender yet firm. This avoids overcooking during baking.
- Alfredo Sauce: Homemade Alfredo sauce is a game-changer. If using store-bought, enhance it with garlic powder, a dash of nutmeg, or a splash of white wine for added depth of flavor.
- Cheese Layer: For an extra-cheesy topping, mix some breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and olive oil to create a golden, crispy crust.
Variations to Try
- Protein Options: Swap chicken with grilled shrimp, diced turkey, or crumbled bacon for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Add more veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients and color.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free Alfredo sauce to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- A crisp green side salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls for a classic Italian-inspired touch.
- A light dessert like tiramisu or panna cotta to round off the meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Wrap it tightly and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For microwave reheating, add a splash of milk or Alfredo sauce to prevent dryness.
Fun Facts
- The original Alfredo dish didn’t include cream—just butter and Parmesan. The American version added cream for extra richness.
- Broccoli’s name comes from the Italian word broccolo, meaning “the flowering crest of a cabbage.”
- Casseroles gained popularity in the 1950s as a convenient, one-pan meal solution for busy families.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake with Broccoli is a crowd-pleaser that blends comfort, convenience, and flavor. It’s ideal for:
- Busy Families: A quick, one-dish meal that feeds everyone with minimal cleanup.
- Meal Preppers: Perfect for making ahead and reheating during the week.
- Special Occasions: Its creamy, cheesy goodness makes it a great option for potlucks or casual dinner parties.
The combination of juicy chicken, tender pasta, and fresh broccoli drenched in a rich Alfredo sauce makes this dish irresistible. Plus, the bubbly, golden cheese on top gives it that “wow” factor.
Alfredo Sauce: Homemade vs. Store-Bought
Homemade Alfredo sauce can elevate this dish to gourmet status. If you’re making it from scratch, here’s a quick recipe:
Ingredients for Homemade Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Quick Steps:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Store-bought Alfredo sauce works well for convenience, but you can enhance it with fresh garlic, a pinch of nutmeg, or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.
Perfect Broccoli Prep
Broccoli plays a key role in balancing the richness of the Alfredo sauce. For best results:
- Steam, Don’t Boil: Steaming preserves the vibrant green color and nutrients while keeping the broccoli firm.
- Even Pieces: Cut broccoli into uniform florets to ensure even cooking.
- Season Lightly: A sprinkle of salt and a drizzle of olive oil before mixing into the pasta brings out its natural sweetness.
How to Customize This Recipe
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
- Herbaceous Touch: Mix in fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme to enhance the flavor.
- Extra Veggies: Incorporate mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for added texture and taste.
- Cheese Variations: Replace mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a unique twist.
Ideal Pairings
Enhance your dinner experience by serving this dish with:
- Side Dish: Garlic knots, crusty bread, or a light arugula salad with lemon dressing.
- Beverage: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, or a refreshing lemonade for non-alcoholic options.
- Dessert: End the meal with something light, like a fruit tart or lemon sorbet, to balance the richness of the pasta.
Time-Saving Hacks
- Rotisserie Chicken: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save prep time.
- Pre-Cut Broccoli: Buy pre-washed, pre-cut broccoli florets to skip chopping.
- Meal Prep: Assemble the bake ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Common Questions About This Recipe
Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free Alfredo sauce.
Q: How can I make it healthier?
A: Use whole-grain pasta, a lighter Alfredo sauce, and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or kale.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes! This dish freezes well. Store portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Fun Cooking Tips
- For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and olive oil, then sprinkle it over the pasta before baking.
- If you like smoky flavors, add diced, cooked bacon or smoked chicken to the mix.
- Want extra creaminess? Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or ricotta into the Alfredo sauce.
Recipe Origins and Inspirations
This recipe is inspired by the classic Italian-American Alfredo pasta, with a practical twist for modern kitchens. It merges the comforting qualities of a baked casserole with the indulgent flavors of a creamy Alfredo sauce. Adding broccoli not only boosts the nutritional profile but also brings a pop of color and texture to the dish.
Pro Tip for Presentation
Before serving, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan and finely chopped parsley over the top. It adds a vibrant, elegant touch that makes the dish look as amazing as it tastes.
Conclusion
This Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake with Broccoli is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and wholesome ingredients, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Serve it with your favorite sides, experiment with flavors, and enjoy this comforting dish that’s guaranteed to impress!