4.41 from 42 votes

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole

By: Julia Pacheco

This irresistible chicken broccoli Alfredo casserole marries tender, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and vibrant broccoli florets in a luxurious, creamy sauce, all crowned with a golden, bubbly cheese topping. It’s a satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners and special occasions alike.

Prep: 10 minutes mins

Cook: 35 minutes mins

Total: 45 minutes mins

Servings: 5 servings

Save RecipeSaved Recipe
Pin Recipe
Comment
Print Recipe

Ingredients 

Gathering fresh, quality ingredients is the first step to a truly exceptional casserole. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this amazing Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole:

• ▢ 1 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin is preferred for flavor)
• ▢ 1 tbsp butter (unsalted is best for controlling sodium)
• ▢ 2 chicken breasts, sliced in half thinly (about 1.5 lbs total, for quicker cooking and better texture)
• ▢ 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• ▢ 1 tsp pepper (freshly ground black pepper for best flavor)
• ▢ 1 tsp onion powder
• ▢ 1 tsp Italian seasoning (a blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, rosemary)
• ▢ 1 tsp oregano (dried)
• ▢ 10 oz penne pasta (or another short pasta like ziti or rotini)
• ▢ 1 tbsp minced garlic (freshly minced is key for robust flavor)
• ▢ 1 tbsp flour (all-purpose, to thicken the sauce)
• ▢ ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• ▢ 2 cups heavy cream (for a rich and creamy sauce)
• ▢ 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded, for a delicious melt)
• ▢ 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is always superior)
• ▢ 2 cups chopped spinach (fresh, adds a touch of freshness and nutrients)
• ▢ 12 oz steamed broccoli (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained, cut into small florets)

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Instructions 

Follow these detailed steps to create a truly memorable Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole. Precision and care in each stage will ensure a perfect, creamy result.

• Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pasta Water. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). At the same time, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil on your stove for the pasta.
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Pasta. Season both sides of the thinly sliced chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and oregano. In a large pan or skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and the pan is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and golden brown. While the chicken cooks, add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the cooked pasta and set it aside. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it to a cutting board, let it rest for a few minutes, then cut it into bite-sized pieces or shreds. Set aside with the pasta.
• Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Alfredo Sauce. Using the same pan where you cooked the chicken (don’t clean it, those pan drippings add flavor!), add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute, continuously stirring, until it forms a light golden roux. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the mozzarella cheese and ¾ cup of the Parmesan cheese until completely melted and smooth. Finally, add the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts into the sauce.
• Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Casserole. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, steamed broccoli florets, and the cooked and diced chicken. Pour the freshly made creamy Alfredo sauce over the mixture and stir everything thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated. Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Transfer the entire pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese on top is golden brown and melted. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Nutrition

Calories: 934kcal | Carbohydrates: 55g | Protein: 49g | Fat: 58g | Saturated Fat: 34g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 17g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 221mg | Sodium: 1338mg | Potassium: 918mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 3521IU | Vitamin C: 66mg | Calcium: 607mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation. It can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole

This casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why this recipe will quickly become a family favorite:

• Unbeatable Flavor: The rich, velvety Alfredo sauce perfectly coats every piece of chicken and pasta, while the broccoli adds a delightful counterpoint of freshness and texture.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even novice cooks can achieve a delicious result. Most of the cooking is hands-off in the oven!
• Family-Friendly: It’s a complete meal in one dish that appeals to almost everyone, making it ideal for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to your family’s preferences. Swap out proteins, add different vegetables, or experiment with various cheeses.
• Comfort Food at its Best: There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy casserole to bring comfort and satisfaction after a long day.

Tips for the Best Alfredo Casserole

Achieving casserole perfection is simple with these helpful tips:

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook your pasta al dente, meaning slightly firm to the bite. It will continue to cook in the oven, so slightly undercooking it initially prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Sauté Garlic Carefully: Garlic burns quickly. Cook it just until fragrant (about 30 seconds to 1 minute) before adding flour to prevent a bitter taste.
• Freshly Grated Cheese is Key: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty. Freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan melt smoothly and integrate better into the sauce, providing superior flavor and texture.
• Deglaze the Pan: After cooking the chicken, use the chicken broth to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits are packed with flavor and will enhance your sauce.
• Broccoli Texture: Steamed broccoli should be tender-crisp. Avoid over-steaming, as it will soften further during baking.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to get creative with your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole:

• Protein Swaps: Instead of chicken breasts, try using rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep, or swap for shrimp, turkey, or even Italian sausage.
• Vegetable Boost: Add more vegetables like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, peas, or diced carrots. Sauté harder vegetables before adding to the mix.
• Cheese Variations: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, consider adding a touch of provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick to the Alfredo sauce.
• Herb Appeal: Fresh parsley or basil stirred in at the end, or as a garnish, adds brightness.

Serving Suggestions

This rich casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides:

• Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of that creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Roasted Asparagus: Simple and elegant, roasted asparagus spears complement the flavors without overpowering them.

Storage and Reheating

Have leftovers? Here’s how to keep your casserole delicious:

• Storage: Store any leftover Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems too thick. For a larger portion, cover with foil and reheat in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) until warm, then uncover for the last few minutes if you want to crisp the top slightly.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes reasonably well. Assemble and bake, then allow to cool completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the texture of the sauce and pasta might change slightly after freezing and thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole (up to the point of baking) and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, you might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be going into the oven cold.

What kind of pasta works best?

Penne is excellent, but other short, sturdy pasta shapes like ziti, rigatoni, rotini, or even farfalle (bow-tie pasta) work well as they hold the creamy sauce nicely.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before steaming or adding it to the mixture to prevent excess water from thinning your sauce.

My Alfredo sauce is too thin/thick. How can I fix it?

If it’s too thin, simmer it gently for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken. If it’s too thick, whisk in a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the roux. Ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free.

This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular. It’s comforting, hearty, and packed with flavors that everyone at your table will appreciate. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try and share your delicious creations!