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Creamy & Comforting: The Ultimate Chicken Alfredo Casserole with Broccoli Recipe
When the craving for a truly satisfying, heartwarming meal strikes, nothing quite hits the spot like a rich and creamy casserole. Our **Chicken Alfredo Casserole with Broccoli** is the epitome of comfort food, transforming simple ingredients into a delectable dish that’s perfect for any weeknight. This recipe takes the classic, beloved flavors of chicken alfredo and bakes them into an easy-to-manage casserole, making it an instant family favorite. The addition of vibrant, tender broccoli florets not only adds a welcome pop of color and texture but also a healthy boost, making it easier to sneak those essential greens onto your family’s plates – even for the pickiest eaters!
Imagine tender penne pasta coated in a luxurious, velvety Alfredo sauce, intertwined with succulent pieces of chicken and crisp-tender broccoli, all generously topped with a blanket of gooey, golden-brown mozzarella cheese. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary hug that warms you from the inside out. Designed with simplicity in mind, this **easy chicken alfredo casserole** comes together with minimal fuss, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings when you need a hearty, homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to add this comforting **chicken broccoli alfredo bake** to your regular meal rotation!
Why This Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a Weeknight Winner
This isn’t just another casserole; it’s a strategic culinary move for anyone seeking deliciousness without the drama. Here’s why our **Chicken Alfredo Casserole with Broccoli** will quickly become a cherished recipe in your home:
- Effortless Preparation: With pre-cooked chicken and jarred Alfredo sauce, assembly is a breeze. It’s the ultimate “dump and bake” meal that frees up your precious evening time.
- Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and cheesy topping are universally appealing, ensuring even those who typically shy away from vegetables will happily enjoy their broccoli in this delightful mix.
- Nutrient-Packed: Broccoli adds essential vitamins and fiber, balancing the richness of the Alfredo sauce and making this a more complete meal.
- Comfort Food at its Best: There’s something inherently soothing about a warm, bubbly casserole. This dish delivers on that promise with every creamy, cheesy bite.
- Great for Leftovers: This casserole tastes just as good, if not better, the next day, making it fantastic for meal prep or a quick lunch.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Chicken Alfredo Casserole
One of the beauties of this **simple chicken alfredo casserole recipe** lies in its straightforward ingredient list. You don’t need exotic items; just a few pantry staples and fresh additions come together to create magic. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:
- Penne Pasta: We recommend penne for its tube-like shape, which perfectly cradles the rich Alfredo sauce and small pieces of chicken and broccoli. Its sturdy structure also holds up well during baking, preventing it from becoming mushy. Other great options include rotini, ziti, or even fettuccine broken into smaller pieces. Remember to cook it al dente according to package directions before adding it to the casserole – it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Alfredo Sauce: For ultimate convenience, use your favorite brand of jarred Alfredo sauce. There are many high-quality options available that provide a rich, creamy base without the fuss of making it from scratch. If you’re feeling adventurous and have a little extra time, a homemade Alfredo sauce can elevate this dish even further. Look for brands known for their authentic flavor to ensure the best results for your **creamy chicken alfredo casserole**.
- Mozzarella Cheese: This is the star of the cheesy topping! Mozzarella melts beautifully, creating that irresistible golden-brown crust and gooey texture that makes casseroles so satisfying. We use it both in the mixture and on top for maximum cheese pull. You can also experiment with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for an extra layer of savory flavor.
- Steamed Broccoli Florets: Adding broccoli not only boosts the nutritional value but also provides a delightful textural contrast to the soft pasta and chicken. Frozen steamed broccoli florets are a fantastic time-saver here; simply microwave them according to package instructions until tender-crisp. If using fresh broccoli, chop it into small florets and steam or blanch them briefly until vibrant green and tender. This ensures the broccoli is cooked through but still has a slight bite after baking.
- Cooked Chopped Chicken: The convenience factor of this recipe is greatly enhanced by using pre-cooked chicken. A **rotisserie chicken casserole** is a popular choice for a reason – shredding a rotisserie chicken takes minutes and adds incredible flavor. Alternatively, you can bake, grill, or pan-fry 2 large chicken breasts, then chop them into bite-sized pieces. This is also a brilliant way to use up any leftover cooked chicken you might have on hand.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of black pepper to the mixture before baking. These subtle additions can enhance the overall taste profile of your **ultimate chicken alfredo casserole with broccoli**.
Simple Steps to Make Your Delicious Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Casserole
Creating this satisfying **chicken alfredo pasta bake** is incredibly straightforward, even for novice cooks. Follow these easy steps to bring this delightful dish to life:
First, you’ll need to prepare your foundational components. Begin by boiling your penne pasta according to the package directions. It’s crucial to cook it until it’s al dente – firm to the bite – as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, so aim for a slight chewiness. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly. While the pasta cooks, ensure your chicken is ready. For the quickest and most flavorful option, grab a rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store; simply shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. If you’re cooking chicken from scratch, you can bake or sauté boneless, skinless chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper until fully cooked, then chop them up. Don’t forget to steam your broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp. Frozen bags can be microwaved for speed, or fresh broccoli can be steamed on the stovetop.
Next, it’s time to bring all these delicious elements together. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, the chopped cooked chicken, and the steamed broccoli florets. Pour in both jars of your favorite Alfredo sauce. Now, add 1 1/2 cups of the mozzarella cheese to the bowl. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring that the pasta, chicken, and broccoli are all beautifully coated in the creamy Alfredo sauce. The goal is an even distribution of all ingredients for a harmonious bite in every forkful of this **creamy chicken alfredo bake**. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there if it helps!
Once everything is perfectly combined, pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly spread it out to create a consistent layer. This ensures uniform cooking and that delightful cheesy crust we all love. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole. This final layer of cheese will melt into a golden, bubbly topping that is truly irresistible. Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, covered with foil. This initial covered bake helps the casserole heat through and keeps it moist. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and beautifully golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and prevent burns.
Variations & Customizations for Your Alfredo Casserole
While this **chicken and broccoli alfredo casserole** is perfect as is, it’s also incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different additions to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Consider adding other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach (stirred in at the end), or even peas. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick, while a handful of crispy bacon bits mixed in or sprinkled on top can bring a smoky, savory dimension. You can also swap out penne for other pasta shapes like rotini or ziti, or use a blend of different cheeses for a richer flavor profile. For a crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese before the final uncovered bake.
Serving Suggestions
This **chicken alfredo pasta bake** is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole. Warm garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce. For another vegetable side, try simple steamed green beans or asparagus.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Have leftovers? Lucky you! This **comforting chicken alfredo casserole** stores beautifully. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions until warm, or for a whole casserole, cover it with foil and bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You might want to add a splash of milk or chicken broth before reheating to restore some of the creaminess.
More Easy Chicken Casseroles You’ll Love
Chicken casseroles are my go-to for effortless, delicious dinners. They’re a true lifesaver when I need a quick meal and can simply throw ingredients into a baking dish. The versatility is amazing – whether I’m craving Italian, Mexican, something spicy, healthy, or a bit fancier, there’s a chicken casserole for every mood, often with minimal ingredients and effort. Here are a few of my very favorite chicken casserole recipes to inspire your next easy meal:
Fiesta Chicken Casserole
Zucchini Stuffing Chicken Casserole
Simple Ritz Chicken Casserole
Chicken Bacon Ranch Rice Casserole
Chicken Alfredo Casserole with Broccoli
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Ingredients
- 16 oz box penne pasta, cooked al dente
- 2 jars Alfredo sauce (your favorite brand)
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded and divided
- 12 oz steamed broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, tender-crisp)
- 2 cups cooked chopped chicken (rotisserie or leftover chicken works great!)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, chopped cooked chicken, steamed broccoli florets, both jars of Alfredo sauce, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and coated in the creamy sauce. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set. Enjoy this comforting meal!
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Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. Values can vary based on specific brands and ingredient preparations.