If there’s one dish that has earned a permanent spot in my weeknight dinner rotation, it’s this Easy Chicken Broccoli Baked Alfredo. It’s everything you crave on a busy evening—rich, creamy Alfredo sauce blanketing tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and vibrant broccoli, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection.
I still remember making this on a chilly autumn afternoon years ago. I had leftover chicken in the fridge and a craving for something cozy. With a few pantry staples and 40 minutes later, I pulled out a bubbling casserole dish that smelled like heaven. The first bite? Absolute magic. Creamy, cheesy, comforting… my family devoured it, and it’s been a request ever since.
Now, let me tell you why this might just become your new go-to dinner too.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy, Comforting, and Crowd-Pleasing
This isn’t your average chicken pasta. The homemade Alfredo sauce is the star here—silky, rich, and packed with Parmesan flavor that hugs every strand of fettuccine. And the way it bubbles and browns in the oven? Pure comfort food bliss.
It’s the perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or those nights when you just need something warm and satisfying. Even picky eaters tend to clean their plates (trust me, I’ve seen it happen).
Whether you’re serving it up with a side of garlic bread or enjoying it straight from the casserole dish (no judgment here), it’s the kind of meal that makes people say, “Wow, can I get the recipe?”
Simple Ingredients You Already Have
One of the best parts? You probably have most of the ingredients sitting in your kitchen already.
Think about it:
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Chicken (rotisserie works beautifully if you’re short on time)
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Broccoli (fresh or frozen)
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Pasta (fettuccine is classic, but any shape will do)
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Butter, garlic, cream, and cheese—classic pantry and fridge staples
No exotic ingredients. No endless grocery list. Just simple, wholesome components coming together to create something far greater than the sum of its parts.
Minimal shopping, maximum flavor. Isn’t that what we’re all after on a busy weeknight?
Foolproof Process for All Skill Levels
This recipe was designed with all home cooks in mind—whether you’re a seasoned pro or just learning your way around the kitchen.
The steps are straightforward and forgiving. Sauté some garlic, whisk up a luscious Alfredo sauce, toss everything together, and bake. That’s it.
No fancy techniques, no fussy equipment. You don’t even need a stand mixer or food processor—just a skillet, a pot, and a baking dish.
If you can boil pasta and stir a sauce, you can absolutely master this dish. It’s beginner-friendly and practically foolproof.
Ingredients
Full List of Ingredients
Let’s break down each ingredient and why it matters:
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2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded – Tender, lean protein that soaks up all that creamy Alfredo sauce. Pro tip: Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver on busy nights.
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2 cups broccoli florets, steamed – Brings freshness, color, and a healthy crunch to balance the richness.
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12 oz fettuccine pasta, cooked al dente – The classic pasta for Alfredo; its flat, wide strands hold the sauce beautifully.
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2 tbsp butter – For sautéing garlic and building a flavorful sauce base.
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3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds irresistible aroma and depth of flavor.
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1 ½ cups heavy cream – The heart of a velvety, luscious Alfredo sauce.
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Provides that rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture we all crave.
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts into a bubbly, golden topping when baked.
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Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.
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1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional) – A sprinkle of freshness for garnish, making it look as good as it tastes.
🌟 Tip: Freshly grated Parmesan gives you the creamiest results, but pre-grated will work in a pinch.
How to Make Easy Chicken Broccoli Baked Alfredo
This recipe is designed to be stress-free, with clear steps and plenty of wiggle room for busy cooks. Follow along, and in no time, you’ll be pulling a golden, bubbling casserole out of your oven.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you are. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to make cleanup a breeze later.
2️⃣ Sauté Garlic in Butter
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant.
🌟 Kitchen Tip: Keep an eye on the garlic—it should be soft and aromatic, not browned or bitter.
3️⃣ Create the Alfredo Sauce
Pour in 1 ½ cups heavy cream, stirring gently. Bring it to a simmer (don’t boil), then slowly stir in 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly.
Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
🥄 Want extra richness? Add a pinch of nutmeg—it’s a secret ingredient that enhances the creamy flavor.
4️⃣ Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Broccoli
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
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12 oz cooked fettuccine (al dente)
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2 cups shredded cooked chicken
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2 cups steamed broccoli florets
Pour the warm Alfredo sauce over the mixture. Toss gently until every piece of pasta and broccoli is coated in that creamy goodness.
5️⃣ Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour everything into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
6️⃣ Top with Mozzarella
Sprinkle ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese over the top for a gooey, cheesy crust that turns irresistibly golden in the oven.
7️⃣ Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
🌟 If you love a crispier top, broil for the last 1–2 minutes—but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
8️⃣ Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Then… dig in! Serve with warm garlic bread, a fresh salad, or enjoy it as-is straight from the dish.
Pairings, Variations, Tips & More for Easy Chicken Broccoli Baked Alfredo
Now that your kitchen smells like creamy, cheesy heaven and your Chicken Broccoli Baked Alfredo is ready to serve, let’s make this dish even more irresistible. From perfect pairings to clever variations, storage tips, and reader FAQs—we’ve got you covered.
What to Serve with This Recipe
Suggested Pairings
This baked Alfredo is hearty and filling on its own, but the right sides and drinks can elevate it into a full-on dining experience:
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Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up every last bit of Alfredo sauce.
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A crisp green salad – Tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing balance.
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Light desserts – Think lemon sorbet, fresh berries, or a slice of angel food cake to end on a bright note.
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Drinks – Pair with chilled Chardonnay, sparkling water with lemon, or iced tea for a simple, elegant touch.
🌟 Tip: Keep sides light and fresh to balance the richness of the Alfredo.
Variations and Substitutions
Low-Carb Option
Want to make this dish a little lighter? Swap out the fettuccine for spiralized zucchini noodles or roasted spaghetti squash. Both options soak up the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully without the extra carbs.
You can even use cauliflower rice as a base for a totally different texture and feel. Just remember, these swaps cook faster, so reduce your baking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
Vegetarian Twist
To make a vegetarian-friendly version, replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, or even a mix of spinach and artichokes.
These veggies not only add depth of flavor but also bring their own nutritional benefits. Mushrooms, in particular, offer a meaty texture that makes this version just as satisfying.
Gluten-Free Version
For a gluten-free Alfredo bake, substitute traditional fettuccine with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Brown rice pasta, quinoa pasta, or even chickpea pasta all work well.
Cook your gluten-free pasta just until al dente to prevent it from breaking apart during baking. As always, double-check that your Parmesan and mozzarella are gluten-free (most are, but it’s worth confirming).
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature
This dish should not sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. To keep leftovers safe, refrigerate promptly in an airtight container.
Refrigeration
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened.
Freezing and Reheating
You can freeze the baked Alfredo once cooled completely. Wrap tightly in foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake covered at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
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Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, creamier sauce.
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Steam broccoli lightly before baking to keep it vibrant green and tender-crisp.
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For a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce.
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Don’t overbake—check at the 20-minute mark to avoid drying out the pasta.
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Add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for a touch of brightness that balances the richness.
Related Recipes
If you loved this Easy Chicken Broccoli Baked Alfredo, you might also enjoy:
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Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe – Another comforting, creamy dish perfect for chilly nights.
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Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe – A quick stovetop pasta loaded with garlic and Parmesan goodness.
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French Onion Chicken Bake Recipe – A cozy casserole with caramelized onions and melted cheese.
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Parmesan Cream Sauce – Perfect if you’re craving creamy flavors but with a beefy twist.
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Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe – Restaurant-inspired comfort food for a weeknight.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the entire dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What pasta works best besides fettuccine?
Penne, rigatoni, or rotini are excellent choices—they hold the sauce well and make serving easy.
Can I use jar Alfredo sauce?
Absolutely. While homemade tastes fresher, a high-quality jarred Alfredo sauce is a great time-saver for busy nights.
How do I keep the pasta from drying out?
Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, and if reheating, cover the dish with foil and add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
This Easy Chicken Broccoli Baked Alfredo is more than just a recipe—it’s a warm hug in a casserole dish. Creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors, it’s proof that weeknight dinners can be both easy and extraordinary.
PrintEasy Chicken Broccoli Baked Alfredo
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A comforting and creamy baked Alfredo casserole loaded with tender chicken, broccoli florets, and fettuccine pasta—topped with golden, melted mozzarella. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish.
Ingredients
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2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
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2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
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12 oz fettuccine pasta, cooked al dente
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2 tablespoons butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 ½ cups heavy cream
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Melt butter in a skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant.
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Stir in heavy cream and simmer; add Parmesan until sauce thickens.
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Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli in a bowl.
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Toss with Alfredo sauce and transfer to greased baking dish.
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Top with mozzarella cheese.
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Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
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Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
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Rotisserie chicken makes prep faster.
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For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce.
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Swap fettuccine for penne or rotini for a fun twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Calories: 495 kcal
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
Keywords: Chicken Alfredo bake, Baked chicken broccoli Alfredo, Creamy chicken pasta casserole, Cheesy Alfredo pasta bake