Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe

Indulge in this creamy, cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bake recipe, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Loaded with tender chicken, broccoli, and pasta smothered in a rich homemade Alfredo sauce, this comforting casserole is topped with melted mozzarella cheese for the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Quick to make and family-friendly, this baked pasta dish is a go-to recipe for busy nights. Whether you’re looking for an easy casserole recipe, a creamy pasta bake, or a meal prep favorite, this Chicken Alfredo Bake delivers unbeatable flavor and simplicity. Ideal for potlucks, meal prep, or a cozy dinner at home!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 large chicken breast (or 2 cups cooked and diced chicken)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ¾ lb. medium pasta shells (or substitute with your favorite pasta)
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

Alfredo Sauce

• 7 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3.5 cups half-and-half
• 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Romano cheese, shredded

Topping (Optional)

• 1/2 cup Ritz crackers, crushed (or breadcrumbs)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Cook the Chicken

1. Butterfly the chicken breast and slice along the seam to create two thinner pieces. Pat dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Lower the heat if the oil gets too hot.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before dicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Bring 4-6 quarts of water to a boil and add 1/2 tablespoon salt. Cook the pasta until al dente (about 8 minutes for medium shells, but check your pasta’s package instructions).
2. Add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta during the last 4 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
2. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for another 1 minute until smooth.
3. Gradually pour in the half-and-half, whisking constantly. Bring to a gentle bubble.
4. Lower the heat and stir for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
5. Slowly add the Parmesan and Romano cheeses, whisking until fully melted and combined. Turn off the heat.

Assemble the Casserole

1. Stir the cooked pasta and broccoli into the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated. Add the diced chicken and mix well.
2. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Bake

1. Bake uncovered for 10 minutes or until the mozzarella cheese is melted.
2. For added crunch, sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs) on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and the sauce thicken.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Alfredo Bake combines the creamy comfort of Alfredo sauce with tender chicken, broccoli, and gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. The simple ingredients and quick assembly make it a go-to favorite for busy families.

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Tips

• Cut chicken evenly: Slicing the chicken thinly ensures even cooking.
• Avoid overcooking pasta: Stick to al dente pasta so it doesn’t become mushy when baked.
• Cheese quality: Use freshly shredded cheese for the best flavor and creaminess.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein options: Swap chicken for cooked shrimp, turkey, or ham.
• Vegetable variations: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
• Dairy-free: Use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version.

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FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding 10 minutes to the baking time if cold.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, you can save time by using jarred Alfredo sauce, but homemade offers the best flavor.

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Serving and Suggestions

Serve this Chicken Alfredo Bake with a crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For beverages, pair it with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week!