Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo: A Creamy, Cheesy Dinner Classic
There's something magical about a bubbling baked pasta dish fresh out of the oven. Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food—a combination of tender rigatoni, juicy rotisserie chicken, and perfectly cooked broccoli, all enveloped in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce and topped with a golden, melty cheese crust. It’s a meal that satisfies cravings, pleases a crowd, and requires minimal effort to prepare. Whether you're feeding a family or looking for a show-stopping potluck dish, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Time-Saving: Rotisserie chicken and store-bought Alfredo sauce make this dish quick and convenient.
Balanced: With the addition of broccoli, you get a pop of color, crunch, and nutrition.
Crowd-Pleasing: The creamy, cheesy layers are irresistible to both kids and adults.
Ingredients and Their Roles
1 pound rigatoni pasta: A sturdy pasta that holds its shape and captures the sauce in every bite.
1 rotisserie chicken, shredded: Provides tender, flavorful protein without additional cooking.
2 cups creamy Alfredo sauce: The star of the dish, offering a rich and velvety base. Use store-bought for convenience or homemade for extra indulgence.
1 ½ cups fresh broccoli florets: Adds color, texture, and a touch of freshness to balance the richness.
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Creates a gooey, melty topping.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to enhance the dish’s depth.
1 tablespoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle, savory aroma that elevates the sauce.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning every layer of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly.
2. Cook the Pasta
Boil rigatoni in a large pot of salted water. Cook it 3-4 minutes less than al dente according to the package directions—it will finish cooking in the oven.
3. Add the Broccoli
In the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This quick blanching softens them slightly while keeping them vibrant and crisp.
4. Drain and Combine
Drain the pasta and broccoli thoroughly, then transfer them to a 9x13-inch baking dish.
5. Mix the Ingredients
Add the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the baking dish. Stir everything together until evenly coated.
6. Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, ensuring the entire surface is covered.
7. Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
8. Rest and Serve
Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.
Why This Recipe Is Loved
Easy Prep: Minimal chopping and one pot for cooking the pasta and broccoli mean less cleanup.
Versatile: Can be adapted with other vegetables, proteins, or cheeses.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking it slightly underdone ensures it doesn’t turn mushy after baking.
2. Even Cheese Layer: Shred your own mozzarella for the best melt and avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents.
3. Fresh Parmesan: Use high-quality Parmesan for a robust, nutty flavor.
4. Customize the Alfredo Sauce: Enhance store-bought sauce with a splash of cream, a pinch of nutmeg, or a handful of grated Parmesan for a homemade touch.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo with:
A crisp Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls to scoop up every last drop of sauce.
A glass of Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon for a perfect beverage pairing.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is the definition of simple yet impressive. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that will become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or preparing a weeknight meal, this creamy, cheesy pasta bake is guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds.
So, why wait? Try t
his recipe today and savor the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and culinary delight. Your dinner table deserves it!
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