Oven-Baked Chicken And Broccoli Baked Alfredo Recipe

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo Recipe for Dinner Joy

Creamy chicken and broccoli baked alfredo brings comfort straight to your dinner table with minimal effort.

Pasta lovers appreciate how quickly this dish comes together without complicated techniques.

Rich parmesan cheese melts into a luxurious sauce that coats every single noodle perfectly.

Tender chicken pieces blend seamlessly with crisp broccoli florets for balanced nutrition.

Fresh ingredients make this classic recipe feel like a restaurant-quality meal prepared in your own kitchen.

Busy home cooks will appreciate how one pan creates a satisfying meal everyone enjoys.

Dive into this delightful recipe that promises warm, cheesy goodness in every single bite.

Why Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo Is A Comfort Classic

  • Tackle Tricky Cooking with Ease: This recipe transforms complex cooking into a simple, step-by-step process that even novice cooks can master confidently.
  • Craft a Crowd-Pleasing Meal: The combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and rich alfredo sauce creates a universally loved dish that satisfies diverse taste preferences.
  • Pack Nutrition into Comfort Food: Protein-rich chicken and nutrient-dense broccoli blend seamlessly with creamy sauce, making this a balanced meal that doesn't compromise on flavor.
  • Create a One-Pan Wonder: Minimal dishes and straightforward preparation mean less cleanup and more time enjoying a delicious homemade dinner with minimal kitchen stress.

What To Buy For Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

For the Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: A lean and versatile meat that provides a tender and flavorful base for the dish.
For the Vegetables:
  • Broccoli Florets: A nutritious green vegetable that adds color, texture, and a subtle earthy flavor to the recipe.
For the Dairy and Cream Components:
  • Heavy Cream, Whole Milk: Provide a rich and creamy base for the sauce.
  • Cream Cheese: Adds a tangy and smooth texture to the alfredo sauce.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: Introduces a sharp, salty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Creates a golden, melted topping that adds extra richness.
For the Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Garlic Cloves: Offer a pungent and aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
  • Salt, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Provide depth and a balanced seasoning profile.
For the Cooking and Finishing Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing chicken and preventing sticking in the baking dish.
  • Butter: Helps sauté garlic and adds a rich flavor.
  • Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh garnish that adds color and a light herbal note.

How To Make Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo Easily

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F and grab a large baking dish. Give it a quick olive oil spray to prevent anything from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken

Slice chicken breasts into neat, bite-sized chunks that will soak up all the delicious flavors.

Step 3: Sizzle The Chicken

Fire up a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss in chicken pieces and cook until they turn a beautiful golden brown, about 5-6 minutes.

Step 4: Blanch The Broccoli

Chop broccoli into friendly little pieces. Drop them into boiling water for a quick 2-minute bath to keep them bright and crisp.

Step 5: Awaken The Garlic

Finely chop garlic cloves and let them dance in melted butter until they become fragrant and lightly golden.

Step 6: Create Creamy Magic

Grab a mixing bowl and whisk together:
  • Heavy cream
  • Whole milk
  • Cream cheese
  • Grated parmesan

Blend until silky smooth.

Step 7: Spice It Up

Season the cream sauce with:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes

Stir to spread the love evenly.

Step 8: Layer The Goodness

Arrange the sautéed chicken and blanched broccoli in the baking dish, creating a delicious landscape.

Step 9: Pour The Sauce

Drench the chicken and broccoli with the creamy alfredo sauce, making sure every morsel gets covered.

Step 10: Cheese It Up

Shower the top with mozzarella cheese for a golden, melty finish.

Step 11: Bake To Perfection

Pop the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Watch for bubbling sauce and golden-brown cheese.

Step 12: Let It Rest

Pull the dish out and give it a 5-minute breather to let the sauce settle.

Step 13: Serve And Enjoy

Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top and serve piping hot. Pasta makes a fantastic sidekick if you’re feeling extra hungry.

Tips To Get Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo Just Right

  • Slice Chicken Uniformly: Cut chicken breasts into consistent bite-sized pieces to guarantee even cooking and maximize flavor absorption throughout the dish.
  • Blanch Broccoli Briefly: Quickly boil broccoli florets for 2 minutes to preserve their bright green color, crisp texture, and nutritional value while preventing overcooking.
  • Balance Cream Sauce Seasoning: Experiment with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to create a perfectly balanced cream sauce that complements the chicken and broccoli without overwhelming their natural flavors.
  • Prevent Dish from Drying: Cover with foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking if the top begins to brown too quickly, ensuring a moist and creamy casserole with a golden cheese topping.

Ways To Mix Up Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Replace broccoli with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version that maintains the same creamy texture and flavor profile.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan, and replace cream cheese with cashew cream for a plant-based option.
  • Spicy Southwestern Remix: Add diced green chiles, swap parmesan for pepper jack cheese, and incorporate taco seasoning to create a zesty southwestern-inspired casserole.
  • Mediterranean Herb Variation: Incorporate chopped fresh basil, sundried tomatoes, and replace mozzarella with crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired dish.

What Goes Well With Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

  • Crisp White Wine Companion: Choose a chardonnay or pinot grigio to balance the rich, creamy sauce and cut through its velvety texture.
  • Fresh Side Salad Enhancer: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a zesty contrast against the dish's decadent creaminess.
  • Crusty Bread Partner: Serve warm garlic bread or focaccia to soak up the luxurious alfredo sauce and add delightful textural dimension.
  • Refreshing Herbal Drink: Pair with sparkling water infused with fresh basil or mint to cleanse the palate between creamy bites.

How To Store Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo The Easy Way

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the dish in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer chicken and broccoli alfredo to freezer-safe containers, leaving slight space for expansion. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F, place leftovers in a baking dish, cover with foil to retain moisture, and warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Stir halfway through heating to distribute warmth evenly.

FAQs About Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

  • Is this dish healthy?

While delicious, it’s rich in calories due to heavy cream, cheese, and butter. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt, reduce cheese quantities, and add more vegetables.

  • Can I use different proteins?

Absolutely! Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or tofu. Each protein will bring a unique flavor profile to the dish while maintaining similar cooking techniques.

  • How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Whisk the cream sauce slowly and consistently, using room temperature ingredients. Avoid high heat and stir gently to maintain a smooth, creamy consistency.

  • What herbs complement this recipe best?

Parsley works wonderfully, but basil, thyme, and oregano also enhance the flavor. Fresh herbs add brightness and depth to the creamy alfredo base.

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Oven-Baked Chicken And Broccoli Baked Alfredo Recipe

Oven-Baked Chicken And Broccoli Baked Alfredo Recipe


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4.7 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comfort meets elegance in this chicken and broccoli baked alfredo, where creamy sauce embraces tender chicken and crisp broccoli. Hearty pasta layers blend with rich parmesan, promising a satisfying meal you’ll savor to the last delicious bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein and Vegetable:

  • 2 lbs chicken breast
  • 3 cups broccoli florets

Dairy and Sauce Components:

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup butter

Seasoning and Extras:

  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley
  • 1 cup pasta (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a large baking dish by lightly coating with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Slice chicken breasts into uniform bite-sized pieces, ensuring even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sauté chicken until golden brown and nearly cooked through, approximately 5-6 minutes.
  4. Chop broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces and briefly blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes to maintain vibrant color and crisp texture.
  5. Mince garlic cloves and sauté in butter until fragrant and lightly golden, releasing their aromatic essence.
  6. In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, cream cheese, and grated parmesan until smooth and well-incorporated.
  7. Season the cream sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, stirring to distribute spices evenly.
  8. Layer sautéed chicken and blanched broccoli in the prepared baking dish, creating an even distribution.
  9. Pour the creamy alfredo sauce over the chicken and broccoli, ensuring complete coverage.
  10. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese across the top for a golden, melted finish.
  11. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the sauce bubbles and cheese turns golden brown.
  12. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow sauce to set.
  13. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot, optionally accompanied by pasta.

Notes

  • Optimize chicken tenderness by marinating in buttermilk or yogurt for 30 minutes before cooking, which helps break down proteins and create a more succulent texture.
  • Reduce fat content by substituting heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half, maintaining creamy consistency while cutting calories.
  • Enhance vegetable nutrition by adding additional colorful vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, creating a more balanced and nutrient-dense meal.
  • Make the dish gluten-free by using cornstarch instead of traditional flour-based thickeners and ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 615
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 890 mg
  • Fat: 45 g
  • Saturated Fat: 23 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 42 g
  • Cholesterol: 170 mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

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