Ever crave a dish that’s both comforting and packed with goodness? Look no further than this Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake! This creamy, cheesy bake brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta in a luscious Alfredo sauce. It’s the perfect family meal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Inspired by classic Italian flavors, this bake is guaranteed to become a new favorite. Let’s dive into the magic of this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Ready in under an hour: From prep to plate, this bake is quick and easy.
Packed with protein: With 35g of protein per serving, it’s a satisfying and nourishing meal.
Cheesy and creamy: The homemade Alfredo sauce and mozzarella topping create an irresistible texture.
Budget-friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients.
Customizable: Easily adaptable to your family’s preferences.
A healthier twist on classic Alfredo: Loaded with broccoli and chicken for added nutrients.
Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and freeze for a convenient meal later.
A comforting classic: Rekindles cozy family dinner memories.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate the flavors and make this dish truly special.

For the Chicken:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce:

4 tbsp (57g) butter
4 tbsp (32g) all-purpose flour
3 cups (710ml) milk
1 cup (85g) grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bake:

1 lb (454g) broccoli florets
1 lb (454g) pasta (such as penne or rotini), cooked according to package directions
1 cup (113g) shredded mozzarella cheese

For best results with spices, toast them lightly in a dry pan for 30 seconds to unlock their flavor. You can often find great deals on Parmesan at your local cheese shop!

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Essential Equipment List

9×13 inch baking dish: For even baking and easy serving.
Large skillet: To cook the chicken perfectly.
Large saucepan: Essential for creating the creamy Alfredo sauce.

Chicken broccoli alfredo bake, golden and bubbly.

Large bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
Steamer or pot for broccoli: To cook the broccoli to tender-crisp perfection.

Don’t have a steamer? A simple pot with a little water and a lid works just fine! A heavy-bottomed saucepan will ensure the Alfredo sauce doesn’t scorch.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Medium

This Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is easily scaled up for a crowd or halved for a cozy solo meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake. Each step is designed to be clear and easy to follow, even for novice cooks.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Set aside. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 3: Cook Broccoli

Steam or boil the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and set aside. Overcooked broccoli will become mushy, so aim for a slight bite.

Step 4: Make Alfredo Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until sauce has thickened. Constant stirring prevents lumps from forming.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Season

Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that complements the cheesy flavor.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, broccoli florets, and Alfredo sauce. Stir until everything is well coated. Ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed in the sauce.

Step 7: Assemble and Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. This creates a beautiful, bubbly crust.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bake is heated through. The top should be golden brown and the sauce bubbling around the edges.

Step 9: Rest and Serve

Let stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the bake to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy!

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Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake turns out perfectly every time. These insights can help you troubleshoot common issues and elevate your cooking skills.

Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook it al dente to prevent a mushy bake.
Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and has a richer flavor.
If the Alfredo sauce is too thick: Add a splash of milk to thin it out.
For a golden-brown topping: Broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes: For a subtle kick of heat.

Pre-measure all your ingredients before you start for a smoother cooking process! Deglazing the skillet with a little chicken broth after cooking the chicken adds extra flavor to the sauce.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to put your own spin on this classic? Here are some easy variations and substitutions for the Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake.

Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with mushrooms or tofu.

Creamy chicken and broccoli alfredo casserole.

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.
Add veggies: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach.
Different cheese: Try using a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Complete your meal with these delicious serving suggestions and pairings that complement the flavors of the Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake.

Serve with a crisp green salad: The freshness balances the richness of the bake.
Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy Alfredo sauce.
Non-alcoholic pairing: A sparkling lemonade cuts through the richness.
Roasted vegetables: Such as carrots or Brussels sprouts.

This bake is a fall feast stunner! Plate artfully by stacking slices high and drizzling extra sauce on top.

Health Benefits

This Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with health benefits! The dish is a great source of essential nutrients.

Broccoli: Provides fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
Chicken: Offers lean protein for muscle building and repair.
Milk: Supplies calcium for strong bones.

Fiber aids digestion, and protein fuels your body. This dish can be part of a balanced and healthy diet.

Storage & Reheating

Maximize the enjoyment of your Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake with these storage and reheating tips. Proper storage ensures that your bake remains delicious and safe to eat.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Freezing: Portion and wrap tightly; lasts 2 months in the freezer. Thaw completely before reheating.

Cool fully before sealing to prevent condensation and spoilage. To retain the cheesy crust during reheating, cover loosely with foil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake, along with detailed answers to help you succeed.

How Do I Avoid a Soggy Bake?

Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente and drain the broccoli well. Avoid adding extra liquid to the sauce.

Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?

Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the bake to avoid excess moisture.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Assemble the bake and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best?

Penne, rotini, and farfalle are all great options. Choose a pasta with ridges to better hold the sauce.

Can I Double This Recipe?

Yes, but use a larger baking dish or divide the mixture between two dishes. Watch the baking time, as it may need to be increased.

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?

Yes, you can substitute with other cheeses like provolone, Gruyère, or a blend of Italian cheeses for different flavor profiles.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Adding vegetables like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach can add extra nutrients and flavor to the bake. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding them to the mixture so that they are tender and not watery in the finished dish.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 450
Protein: 35g

Baked alfredo dish with chicken and broccoli.

Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 5g

Exact stats need a nutrition calculator. The macros in each serving are Carbs: 20g, Fat: 25g and protein 35g.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more comforting and flavorful recipes? Check out these gems!

Roasted Carrot Quinoa and Chickpea Salad with Lemon Dressing – A vibrant and healthy salad bursting with fresh flavors.
Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice – A comforting and satisfying one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe – A flavorful and easy chicken dish with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy.

Conclusion

This Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a fast, flavorful, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece!

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