When you think of comfort food, pasta bakes are always near the top of the list. They’re warm, creamy, cheesy, and have that baked golden crust that’s impossible to resist. Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake takes all the best parts of Italian-American cooking—rich Alfredo sauce, tender pasta, juicy chicken, and hearty broccoli—and layers them together into one bubbling casserole dish. It’s the kind of recipe you whip up on a chilly evening or for a family dinner when you want something hearty, satisfying, and sure to please everyone at the table. Even picky eaters can’t say no to creamy pasta with cheese baked on top.
Ingredients
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12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta (cooked al dente)
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2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
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3 cups broccoli florets (lightly steamed or blanched)
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3 tablespoons butter
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3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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3 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for richer flavor)
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Cooking Directions
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Preheat the oven: Set to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cook pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Steam broccoli: Lightly steam or blanch the broccoli for 2–3 minutes until bright green but still firm. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare Alfredo sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Cook for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
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Add cheese & seasoning: Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix until creamy.
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Assemble the bake: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Pour in Alfredo sauce and mix well.
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Bake: Transfer to prepared dish, top with remaining mozzarella cheese, and bake for 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Nutrients (per serving, approx. 1 cup)
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Calories: 520
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Protein: 30 g
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Fat: 25 g
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Carbohydrates: 42 g
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Fiber: 4 g
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Calcium: 290 mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are a lot of pasta bakes out there, but this one ticks every single box. It’s creamy without being too heavy, cheesy without being overwhelming, and hearty enough to be a full meal in itself. The chicken brings protein, the broccoli adds freshness and crunch, and the Alfredo sauce ties it all together with that rich, velvety texture. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can prep it ahead, freeze it, or adapt it to whatever you have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy on a cold night, this bake has you covered.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish
Alfredo sauce has its roots in early 20th-century Rome, where chef Alfredo di Lelio created a simple pasta dish using butter and Parmesan. The American adaptation, however, took things to the next level by adding cream and garlic, making it richer and more indulgent. From there, Alfredo sauce became a staple in Italian-American kitchens, often paired with chicken and broccoli. The baked casserole version is a modern evolution, designed for convenience and maximum comfort—perfect for weeknight cooking and potluck dinners.
Ingredient Spotlight
The chicken is the protein backbone here—whether you use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook it fresh, it provides hearty bites throughout the dish. Broccoli plays a crucial role, cutting through the richness with freshness, color, and crunch, plus bringing loads of vitamins C and K. The Alfredo sauce is the star—it’s creamy, garlicky, and loaded with Parmesan for depth. Finally, the mozzarella cheese topping is what gives this dish that bubbly, golden crust you just can’t resist. Together, these ingredients create the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy indulgence with a hint of freshness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This pasta bake is excellent for meal prep. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too, but the oven will keep the cheese melty and the pasta from drying out. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked casserole (wrapped tightly) for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Common Variations to Try
Want to put your own twist on this dish? Try swapping broccoli for spinach, asparagus, or peas for a seasonal change. Use a different cheese blend—cheddar, gouda, or provolone—for a new flavor profile. For a healthier option, use whole-wheat pasta or even chickpea pasta for extra protein. If you want more flavor depth, stir in crispy bacon or pancetta. You can also make it vegetarian by skipping the chicken and adding more veggies like mushrooms or zucchini.
Pairing Recommendations
This bake pairs beautifully with simple sides. A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette balance out the creaminess. Garlic bread or focaccia is a must for soaking up extra sauce. For drinks, a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the richness, while sparkling water with lime keeps things refreshing. If you’re serving it at a gathering, add roasted vegetables or a charcuterie board to round out the meal.
Health Benefits
While indulgent, this dish has its nutritional upsides. The chicken provides lean protein, while broccoli brings fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins like C, K, and folate. Dairy from milk and cheese adds calcium and protein, supporting bone health. To make it lighter, you can use whole milk instead of cream or swap half the pasta for extra veggies. The beauty of this recipe is that you control the ingredients, so it can be as light or as decadent as you want.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is the ultimate comfort dish that brings together the richness of Alfredo sauce, the heartiness of chicken, and the freshness of broccoli in one satisfying casserole. It’s family-friendly, meal-prep approved, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, something to serve at a potluck, or just a cozy meal on a cold evening, this bake will never let you down. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.