Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe
If you’re in the mood for a cozy, filling meal that delivers comfort in every bite, this chicken broccoli Alfredo pasta bake is exactly what you need. It’s everything you love about classic chicken Alfredo pasta—creamy sauce, tender chicken, and rich cheese—but with a wholesome boost of broccoli and a baked finish that adds irresistible texture and flavor.
This dish is the perfect balance of indulgence and nourishment. The chicken broccoli Alfredo pasta bake combines savory shredded chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and vibrant broccoli, all smothered in a velvety Alfredo sauce and baked until bubbly and golden brown on top. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, prepping lunches for the week, or simply craving something warm and cheesy after a long day, this recipe delivers every time.
What makes this chicken broccoli Alfredo pasta bake especially great is its versatility. You can make it ahead of time, customize the ingredients to suit what you have in the fridge, and even freeze it for later. It’s a crowd-pleaser, a picky-eater saver, and a go-to comfort dish that’s surprisingly easy to throw together.
So, if you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying meal that brings restaurant-level flavor straight to your kitchen, this chicken broccoli Alfredo pasta bake is about to become one of your all-time favorites.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Bake
There’s something magical about a bubbling pasta bake that combines tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and rich Alfredo sauce. It’s easy to make, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and bakes to perfection in under an hour. What makes this chicken broccoli Alfredo pasta bake truly stand out is its perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors in every bite. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without sacrificing comfort.
Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Bake
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this hearty, flavor-packed pasta bake. You probably have most of these ingredients on hand already.
For the Pasta Bake:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie works great!)
- 3 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta (about 3/4 of a standard box)
- 3 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, for crunch
- 1 tablespoon melted butter, mixed with breadcrumbs
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect chicken broccoli Alfredo pasta bake from scratch.
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions). Drain and set aside.
Tip: Don’t overcook the pasta — it will continue cooking in the oven, and you want to avoid mushy noodles.
3. Steam or Blanch the Broccoli
If you’re using fresh broccoli:
- Steam or blanch the florets in boiling water for about 2–3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain and set aside.
If you’re using frozen broccoli:
- Let it thaw and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean towel or paper towels.
4. Make the Sauce Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together the Alfredo sauce, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked chicken and broccoli.
Pro Tip: Want extra flavor? Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning.
5. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
6. Assemble the Bake
Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
If using breadcrumbs:
- Mix the panko with melted butter and sprinkle it over the cheese for a crispy topping.
7. Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end to get that irresistible cheesy crust.
8. Let It Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6–8
Tips and Variations for the Best Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Bake
Use Pre-Cooked Chicken
Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken. It adds flavor and speeds up prep.
Go Homemade with the Sauce
Want to level up your dish? Make your own Alfredo sauce by combining:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1.5 cups grated Parmesan
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Melt the butter and garlic, stir in cream, simmer, then whisk in Parmesan until smooth. That’s it!
Switch Up the Pasta
Penne, rotini, rigatoni, or farfalle all work well here. Just avoid thin noodles like spaghetti — you want pasta with texture to hold the sauce.
Try Different Veggies
Not a broccoli fan? Try:
- Spinach (stir it in raw before baking)
- Zucchini (lightly sauté first)
- Mushrooms (sauté with olive oil for added umami)
Make It Gluten-Free
Use gluten-free pasta and Alfredo sauce, and swap the panko topping for a gluten-free alternative or just skip it.
Add Protein or Spice
- Add crumbled bacon or pancetta for a smoky boost.
- Spice lovers can mix in crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
Double the Recipe for Meal Prep
This dish stores well and reheats beautifully, so it’s great for leftovers or freezer meals.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator
Let the chicken broccoli Alfredo pasta bake cool completely. Cover with foil or store in airtight containers. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Wrap the unbaked pasta bake tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed (add 10–15 minutes to bake time).
Freezer tip: If baking from frozen, cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10–15 minutes until golden.
Reheating
Microwave individual portions on high for 2–3 minutes. Add a splash of milk or extra sauce to prevent dryness.
Or reheat covered in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until heated through.
Ingredient Substitutions
Sometimes you have to work with what you’ve got. Here are some easy swaps:
- Alfredo sauce: Use homemade or jarred; a garlic cream sauce or even a light béchamel works in a pinch.
- Milk: Heavy cream for extra richness, or unsweetened oat or almond milk for a dairy-light option.
- Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, but Fontina, Gruyère, or even white cheddar can make things interesting.
- Broccoli: Cauliflower florets or peas are great alternatives.
- Chicken: Swap with cooked turkey, ground chicken, or even tofu for a meatless version.
Why This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Bake Works Every Time
- Easy to make ahead: Prep everything the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh the next day.
- Feeds a crowd: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prepping.
- Customizable: Mix and match proteins, veggies, and cheeses.
- Comfort food at its best: Creamy, cheesy, filling, and endlessly satisfying.
Conclusion
There’s no doubt about it—this chicken broccoli Alfredo pasta bake is a complete winner when it comes to comfort food that’s easy, versatile, and absolutely packed with flavor. It brings together the richness of creamy Alfredo sauce, the hearty goodness of chicken and pasta, and the vibrant crunch of broccoli, all finished with a perfectly baked, cheesy topping. It’s one of those dishes that looks and tastes like it took hours to make, but actually comes together with minimal effort.
Whether you’re planning a busy weeknight dinner, feeding a hungry family, or simply want a cozy dish you can reheat for days, this chicken broccoli Alfredo pasta bake delivers every single time. It’s filling enough to stand on its own, yet flexible enough to pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
So the next time you’re tempted by takeout or stuck wondering what to cook with that leftover chicken, remember this easy and satisfying recipe. Once you try it, the chicken broccoli Alfredo pasta bake will earn a permanent spot in your regular dinner rotation. It’s warm, it’s creamy, and it’s made to bring people together at the table.
Here’s to delicious homemade meals that feel like a hug in every bite—happy baking!
