5-Step Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Bake for Busy Nights

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Bake: A Comforting Classic from My Kitchen to Yours

When I think of ultimate comfort food, my mind drifts to the creamy, savory richness of a chicken broccoli alfredo pasta bake. This dish holds a special place in my heart—not just for its crowd-pleasing flavors but because it reminds me of cozy winter evenings and bustling family dinners. My grandmother used to make a similar creamy casserole, but I’ve given it a modern American twist, turning it into a dish that’s just as fitting for a summer potluck as it is for a holiday feast.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Bake

One-dish wonder: Combines protein, veggies, and carbs in a single dish.
Great for leftovers: It reheats beautifully, making it a practical meal prep choice.
Customizable: Switch out veggies, use gluten-free pasta, or toss in extra cheese!

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family of five or prepping meals for the week, this chicken broccoli alfredo pasta bake has your back.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cozy, creamy bake:

For the pasta bake:

3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
12 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
3 tablespoons butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For topping (optional):

½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
Extra parsley or fresh herbs for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta & Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente—about 1-2 minutes less than package directions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.

Pro Tip: Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures it won’t go mushy when baked.

2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a deep skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Combine and Assemble

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl or the pot you cooked pasta in, combine cooked chicken, pasta, broccoli, and alfredo sauce. Stir until well coated.

Transfer to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese.

4. Add a Crunchy Topping (Optional)

For extra texture, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil or butter and sprinkle over the top. This step is optional, but it adds a golden, satisfying crunch.

5. Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and the top is golden brown. If needed, broil for an extra 2-3 minutes to crisp the top.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Let the pasta bake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil for a pop of color and freshness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make ahead: Assemble everything (except the breadcrumb topping), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add topping just before baking.
Freeze: You can freeze the assembled, unbaked pasta bake for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheat: Cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and add mushrooms or zucchini.
Low-carb: Use spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
Extra protein: Add crumbled bacon or swap in rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Perfect Pairings

Here are some great sides to serve alongside your chicken broccoli alfredo pasta bake:

Garlic bread: The classic.
Caesar salad: Crisp and tangy.
Roasted veggies: Add even more nutrition with oven-roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts.

Tips from My Kitchen

Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce—pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents.
Don’t overcook broccoli—keep it slightly crisp to avoid a mushy texture.
Double the batch and freeze one for a future no-fuss dinner.

Why This Dish Works Year-Round

You might wonder how this creamy, hearty dish fits in the heat of summer. It’s all about balance. The broccoli adds a fresh, green element that lightens things up, and the dish can be served in smaller portions alongside a vibrant salad. In winter, its rich, cheesy warmth becomes a welcome indulgence after a long day.

Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving – Approximate)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	620 kcal
Protein	34g
Carbs	48g
Fat	32g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	610mg

Tip: Use whole wheat pasta and light cream to reduce calories and increase fiber.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking pasta – It will continue cooking in the oven.
Using too much flour – This can result in a lumpy sauce.
Not seasoning properly – Taste your sauce before mixing.
Skipping pre-cook for broccoli – Raw broccoli won’t soften enough in the oven.
Using pre-shredded cheese – It doesn’t melt as well due to anti-caking agents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely! Thaw and pat it dry first to avoid watering down the sauce.

What other pasta shapes work?

Rotini, farfalle, and rigatoni hold sauce well and work great.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and swap flour for a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch.

Can I cook the chicken in the same skillet?

Definitely. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and diced before mixing with the sauce.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Freeze before baking for best texture.

Making It Kid-Friendly

Want to make sure your little ones love this meal?

Chop broccoli finely to blend in better.
Use rotini or shells—fun shapes encourage picky eaters.
Add cheese on top in the shape of a smile or heart—make it fun!
Serve with applesauce or fruit on the side to balance the meal.

A Final Word from My Kitchen

This chicken broccoli alfredo pasta bake is more than a recipe—it’s a solution to weeknight dinner stress. It’s a plate full of comfort, nourishment, and cheesy joy. Whether you’re curled up on a winter’s night or hosting friends on a summer patio, it fits right in.

From my family table to yours—buon appetito!