Cheesy Baked Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Here’s a comfort food classic: Cheesy Baked Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta! It’s creamy, cheesy, hearty, and super easy — the perfect one-dish dinner for a busy night or a cozy weekend meal.

 Cheesy Baked Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

 Prep Time: 15 minutes

⏲️ Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

️ Serves: 6

 Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini work great)

• 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

• 2 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream (or use more milk)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella, divided

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, for classic Alfredo flavor)

• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

‍ Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta & Broccoli:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Cook pasta according to package instructions, adding broccoli florets during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.

• Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Alfredo Sauce:

• In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

• Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

• Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.

• Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth.

• Bring to a simmer and cook for 3–5 minutes, until thickened.

• Stir in Parmesan, 1 cup mozzarella, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

• Once melted and smooth, remove from heat.

3. Combine:

• In a large bowl or the pasta pot, combine cooked pasta & broccoli, chicken, and the Alfredo sauce.

• Mix until everything is well coated.

4. Bake:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

• Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top.

• Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

• Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a browned cheesy crust.

 Optional Toppings:

• Fresh chopped parsley

• Extra Parmesan cheese

• Toasted breadcrumbs for crunch

✅ Tips:

• Shortcut: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken and jarred Alfredo if you’re in a rush.

• Make ahead: Assemble everything and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

• Want a lighter version? Use half-and-half or all milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese slightly.