Name: Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz penne or rotini pasta; 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed; 3 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ¾ cups heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

Golden, bubbling, and packed with creamy comfort, this Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is the weeknight hero your dinner table deserves. Think tender pasta, juicy chicken, crisp broccoli florets, and a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce all pulled together under a blanket of gooey melted cheese. Every bite is hearty, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful.

Perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends, this casserole-style dish is both crowd-pleasing and freezer-friendly. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this dish makes sure no one goes to bed hungry. Best of all, it’s a one-dish wonder that covers your protein, veggies, and carb cravings in the most delicious way possible.

Why You’ll Love This Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Effortless Comfort Food: It’s a warm, creamy, filling bake that comes together with simple ingredients you likely already have.
Balanced & Wholesome: Chicken and broccoli offer a solid combo of lean protein and greens, while pasta adds the satisfying base.
Family-Approved: Picky eaters love the cheesy goodness, and it’s mild enough for kids while flavorful for adults.
Perfect for Make-Ahead: Bake it now, reheat later. It tastes just as amazing on day two.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving in, a bit of prep will make the cooking process seamless. Here are the essential tools and why each one matters:

Large Pot: To cook the pasta and blanch the broccoli quickly in one go, saving you dishes.
Skillet or Sauté Pan: Needed to sear the chicken to golden perfection and start building flavor for the Alfredo sauce.
9×13 Baking Dish: This is where all the magic happens. Use a ceramic or glass dish for even baking and that bubbling, golden cheese top.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring creamy sauces without scratching your pans.
Whisk: Crucial for making sure your Alfredo sauce is lump-free and silky.
Colander: For draining the pasta and broccoli efficiently without losing any ingredients.

Getting these tools prepped ahead ensures the bake comes together like a well-oiled machine.

Ingredients for the Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Pasta (Penne or Rotini): This forms the comforting, carb-filled base of the dish, capturing the sauce beautifully.
Chicken Breast (cooked and cubed): Lean protein that turns golden and tender, making the bake hearty and fulfilling.
Broccoli Florets: Adds a fresh, green bite and balances the richness with its earthy crunch.
Butter: Forms the foundation of the Alfredo sauce, bringing richness and depth.
Garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with savory aroma and bold flavor.
Heavy Cream: Creates a creamy, luxurious texture that clings to every bite.
Parmesan Cheese: Sharp and nutty, it blends into the sauce and tops the bake with a golden crust.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, stretchy top layer we all love.
Salt & Black Pepper: Seasoning essentials that enhance every element.
Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken, adding a layer of savory flavor and locking in moisture.

How To Make the Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake

Step 1: Boil & Blanch

Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of boiling, toss in the broccoli florets. Drain together and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté until fully cooked and slightly golden. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, then whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large bowl or directly in the baking dish, combine cooked pasta, broccoli, chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Mix until well coated. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer to a 9×13 baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving and Storing Your Alfredo Bake

This dish is best served warm right out of the oven, when the cheese is still bubbling and gooey. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for a fresh, zesty finish.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm larger servings in the oven at 350°F until hot throughout. This bake also freezes beautifully—just let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, rotini, ziti, or even shells work great. Just choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well.

Can I make this bake vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and add more broccoli or substitute with mushrooms for a meaty texture.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

You can, but homemade gives a richer, fresher flavor. If using jarred, consider adding a touch of garlic and Parmesan to enhance it.

How do I avoid dry baked pasta?

Make sure not to overbake, and don’t skimp on the sauce. The pasta will absorb some moisture as it bakes, so keeping it saucy is key.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can substitute with gluten-free pasta and ensure your Alfredo sauce ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables?

Of course! Try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes for more variety and color.

Want More Chicken Bake Ideas?

If you love this Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake, here are a few more creamy, cheesy comfort meals worth exploring:

Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti for a Tex-Mex twist.
Easy Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole for another cozy bake featuring chicken and greens.
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls & Creamy Parmesan Pasta if you’re craving fun-sized comfort with creamy sauce.
Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce when you’re in the mood for crispy and creamy in one bite.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a baked handheld alternative.

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Let me know in the comments how your Alfredo bake turned out! Did you go heavy on the cheese? Toss in mushrooms or extra garlic? I love hearing your twists and tips!