This Quick Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake is the perfect comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with hearty ingredients. Tender penne pasta is combined with juicy shredded chicken and crisp-tender broccoli, then smothered in a rich homemade Alfredo sauce. Baked until golden and bubbly, it’s a cozy, satisfying dinner the whole family will love—and it comes together fast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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One-pan meal: Everything comes together in one baking dish.
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Kid-friendly: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with familiar flavors.
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High-protein and fiber-rich: Thanks to chicken and broccoli.
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Perfect for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
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Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and reheat as needed.
Ingredients Breakdown
Base:
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Penne Pasta (12 oz):
A sturdy, tube-shaped pasta that holds the creamy sauce beautifully. -
Cooked Shredded Chicken (2 cups):
A protein-packed shortcut using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken. -
Broccoli Florets (2 cups):
Add freshness, texture, and color to the dish. -
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups):
Melts into a gooey, golden topping for a crave-worthy finish.
Creamy Alfredo Sauce:
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Butter (2 tbsp):
The base of the roux that creates the sauce. -
Garlic (3 cloves, minced):
Adds fragrant, savory flavor. -
All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp):
Thickens the Alfredo sauce to a silky texture. -
Whole Milk (1½ cups):
Adds creaminess without being too heavy. -
Heavy Cream (1 cup):
Creates a rich and indulgent sauce. -
Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, freshly grated):
Delivers bold, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce. -
Salt (½ tsp) and Black Pepper (¼ tsp):
Essential for balancing the flavors. -
Garlic Powder (½ tsp) and Onion Powder (½ tsp):
Enhance the depth of flavor in the creamy sauce.
Garnish:
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Fresh Parsley (1 tbsp, chopped):
Adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness to the finished dish.
Tips and Tricks:
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Shortcut idea: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
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Extra veggies: Add mushrooms or spinach for more nutrition.
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Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce.
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Cheese upgrade: Mix in a little provolone or fontina for extra cheesiness.
Variations and Customizations:
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
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Low-Carb Version: Swap pasta for cooked spaghetti squash or cauliflower.
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Meat-Free Option: Omit chicken and double the broccoli or add roasted vegetables.
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Bacon twist: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon for smoky flavor.
Pairing Suggestions:
Best Sides:
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Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
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Caesar salad or arugula salad
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Roasted vegetables
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Sauteed green beans or asparagus
Beverages:
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White wine (like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)
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Sparkling water with lemon
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Light beer
Storage Instructions:
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Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freeze: Freeze unbaked or baked portions for up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Popular Questions:
Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce?
Yes, but homemade has better flavor and texture. If using store-bought, choose a high-quality brand and add seasonings to taste.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Penne works best, but rotini, rigatoni, or ziti are also great options.