Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake
A comforting dish featuring tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheeses enveloped in baked pasta, perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 500 g short pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni) Choose your favorite shape that will capture the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups broccoli florets Bright green and packed with nutrients.
- 1 rotisserie chicken shredded About 2 cups cooked chicken can also be used.
- 4 tablespoons butter Provides a base for the delicious sauce.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour Essential for thickening the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the flavor of the dish.
- 2 cups milk Or a mix of milk & cream for creaminess.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Extra for topping as needed.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided Adds a gooey topping.
- to taste Salt For seasoning.
- to taste Black pepper Adds a hint of spice.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 200 °C (400 °F) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the short pasta according to the package instructions.
- Add the broccoli florets during the last two minutes of cooking.
- Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving some pasta water.
Making the Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly until it forms a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, along with salt and black pepper to taste.
Combining Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, broccoli, and shredded chicken.
- Pour the Alfredo sauce over the mixture, tossing gently until well-coated.
- Transfer to the greased baking dish and sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Use fresh, high-quality cheeses for the best flavor. Consider mixing in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for added depth. Top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for an extra crunch. Season the sauce carefully; a dash of nutmeg adds complexity.