Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken:

• Start by cooking the chicken breasts. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
• Remove the chicken from the pan, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

2. Cook the Broccoli:

• While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until they’re tender but still vibrant green.
• Remove the broccoli from the boiling water and set it aside to drain. You can also use frozen broccoli if you prefer, but fresh is best for texture.

3. Cook the Pasta:

• In the same pot of water, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions, until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside.

4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:

• In a large saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Pour in the heavy cream and milk, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from scalding.
• Once the cream mixture is heated through, add the Parmesan cheese and continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
• Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly, then remove from heat.

5. Assemble the Casserole:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, and blanched broccoli. Pour the Alfredo sauce over the mixture and toss to combine, making sure everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
• Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.

6. Top with Cheese:

• Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt into a golden, bubbly crust as it bakes.

7. Bake the Casserole:

• Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. If you like a crispier top, you can broil the casserole for an additional 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

• Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set a little, making it easier to scoop.
• Serve hot, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of your homemade Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo!

Tips for the Perfect Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

• Use Fresh Broccoli: For the best texture, use fresh broccoli instead of frozen. It holds its shape better and adds a nice crunch to the casserole.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooking it can result in mushy pasta after baking.
• Make It Ahead: This dish can be assembled a day ahead. Just cover the unbaked casserole and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
• Customize the Protein: You can substitute the chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a different twist. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce or sprinkle them on top before baking.

Why Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo Is a Must-Try

This Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo recipe brings together all the best comfort foods into one dish. The creamy Alfredo sauce is the perfect complement to tender chicken and crunchy broccoli, while the melted cheese on top adds that irresistible golden finish. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a meal to impress guests, this casserole is sure to be a hit.

It’s a complete, flavorful meal in a single pan, packed with protein, veggies, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to make, requires minimal prep, and can be customized to your preferences.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and delicious, look no further than this Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo. With its creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, this dish is a family-friendly favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. Bake it up for dinner tonight, and get ready for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table.