Oh, what a wonderful mix of chicken, broccoli, rich Alfredo sauce, and pasta If you’re looking for a cozy meal that’s both comforting and satisfying, look no further than this chicken broccoli Alfredo pasta bake. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a fun family dinner, making it a staple in your kitchen.
What is Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Bake?
Chicken broccoli Alfredo pasta bake is a mouthwatering casserole that features tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and pasta enveloped in a creamy Alfredo sauce, all baked to golden perfection. This dish not only unites beloved flavors but also incorporates the benefits of proteins and vegetables, turning mealtime into a delightful and healthy experience.
The importance of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can adjust the ingredients to match your family’s preferences and dietary needs. Additionally, it’s a fantastic method for utilizing leftover chicken or vegetables, making sure that everything is put to good use!
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 500 calories per serving
Ingredients of Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Bake
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or fettuccine work great)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook your pasta: If you haven’t done so already, add salt to your boiling water, then follow the package instructions to cook the pasta until it is al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and Alfredo sauce. Stir until everything is well-coated.
- Season: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the creamy mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese: Top the mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Health Benefits of Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Bake
This chicken broccoli Alfredo pasta bake is not just delicious but also packed with health benefits:
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein, crucial for muscle repair and growth.
- Broccoli: Loaded with vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, this green vegetable supports digestion and boosts immunity.
- Pasta: Provides carbs for energy, especially if you choose whole-grain varieties.
- Alfredo Sauce: While rich, it adds creaminess and flavor, and you can opt for lighter versions if you prefer!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutrients in one serving of chicken broccoli Alfredo pasta bake:
- Calories: 500
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
Additional Tips
- Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for no more than 3 days. You can also freeze the bake before cooking for later use!
- Feel free to swap out broccoli for other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Another quick option is to use rotisserie chicken.
- Serving Recommendations: Complement this dish with a crisp side salad or some freshly made garlic bread for a balanced meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. If you bake it directly from the fridge, simply increase the baking time by a few extra minutes.
Q: Is there a gluten-free version?
A: Yes! Opt for gluten-free pasta and make sure your Alfredo sauce is also gluten-free.
Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Definitely! You can mix it up with cheddar, Swiss…
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Bake
A creamy and delicious chicken broccoli alfredo pasta bake that is perfect for a family dinner.
Type: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: chicken, broccoli, alfredo, pasta, bake
Recipe Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 500 calories per serving
Preparation Time: PT15M
Cooking Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Recipe Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or fettuccine work great)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Recipe Instructions:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Pasta: If you haven’t salted your boiling water yet, make sure to do so before cooking your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and Alfredo sauce. Stir until everything is well-coated.
- Season: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the creamy mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese: Top the mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.