Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Are you looking for a comforting, hearty dish that the whole family will love? Look no further than this mouthwatering Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake! Packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy Alfredo sauce, this bake is sure to become a family favorite. The addition of rotini pasta makes it filling, while the blend of cheeses gives it that indulgent touch we all crave. Let’s dive right into what makes this dish so special and how you can whip it up in your own kitchen!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is not just another pasta dish. It combines the richness of homemade Alfredo sauce with the nutritional benefits of broccoli and the protein-packed goodness of chicken. The rotini pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor. With a crispy breadcrumb topping, this dish brings together a delightful combination of textures—creamy, cheesy, and crunchy. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this recipe delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

What You’ll Gather

• 2 cups cooked rotini pasta: This fun-shaped pasta holds the sauce perfectly.
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience!
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed: Fresh or frozen broccoli works well.
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce: Store-bought or homemade—your choice!
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, melty goodness.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for flavor enhancement.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic perfectly.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs: For a crispy topping.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: To help the bread crumbs crisp up nicely.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish is ideal for this recipe.
• Large mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
• Whisk: To mix the Alfredo sauce and seasonings smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
• Oven: Preheat to get that perfect bake.

Stepwise Method: Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pasta

Cook your rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli florets, and Alfredo sauce. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix until everything is well coated with the sauce.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Gently fold in the mozzarella cheese, reserving a handful for topping later. This will create a creamy, cheesy base for your bake.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 6: Prepare Breadcrumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil until they’re evenly coated. This will help them crisp up nicely in the oven.

Step 7: Top the Bake

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the pasta and chicken mixture, then top with the reserved mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once done, let the Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set a bit, making it easier to portion out.

Variations by Season

• Spring: Add fresh asparagus or peas for a seasonal twist.
• Summer: Incorporate roasted bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
• Fall: Mix in some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Winter: Top with crispy fried onions for added crunch and flavor.

Don’t Do This

• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente as it will continue to cook while baking.
• Avoid using low-quality Alfredo sauce, as it may affect the overall flavor of the dish.
• Don’t skip the breadcrumb topping; it adds a delightful crunch that balances the creaminess.
• Don’t forget to season your dish well; taste as you go to ensure maximum flavor.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish, cover it with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the foil and bake as directed. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Your Top Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is great for this recipe, feel free to substitute with penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a delicious vegetarian version.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Consider using whole grain pasta, low-fat Alfredo sauce, and reducing the amount of cheese. You can also add more vegetables to increase the volume without adding many calories.

What to Make After This

• Creamy Mushroom Risotto
• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Final Bite

This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is the perfect cozy dish for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, it’s a complete meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences and seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this bake is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and bring a taste of comfort to your dinner table tonight!

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