Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is a comforting, delicious, and easy-to-make casserole that combines the rich flavors of creamy Alfredo sauce with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve something satisfying and flavorful. The gooey mozzarella and nutty Parmesan cheese create a delightful crust on top, making every bite irresistible. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken and ensures that even picky eaters will get their fill of veggies.
Ingredients
- 1 pound rigatoni: A sturdy pasta that holds up well in a baked dish.
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded: Provides a quick and flavorful source of protein.
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce: Adds creamy richness to the dish.
- 1 ½ cups broccoli florets: Adds a nutritious and crunchy element.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, hand shredded: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy topping.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the dish.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Enhances the flavor with a subtle garlic kick.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook for 3-4 minutes less than the package directions for al dente pasta.
- About 2-3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. This will ensure the broccoli is cooked to a tender-crisp texture.
- Drain the pasta and broccoli together and transfer them to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the baking dish with the pasta and broccoli.
- Pour in the Alfredo sauce and add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until evenly combined.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta mixture, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese. Ensure the cheese covers the entire surface for a deliciously cheesy crust.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Serve:
- Once the dish is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This will help the casserole set and make it easier to serve.
Nutrition Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories: Not provided
- Servings: 6
Serving
Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is best served hot from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or potlucks. The creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and broccoli, combined with the melted cheese, make it a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Notes
- Pasta: Rigatoni is recommended, but you can use other types of pasta like penne, ziti, or fusilli.
- Alfredo Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought Alfredo sauce or make your own from scratch for a more personalized touch.
- Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is convenient, but you can also use any leftover cooked chicken or poach chicken breasts specifically for this recipe.
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture, but frozen broccoli can be used if thawed and drained well.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake it when ready to serve. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of rotisserie chicken? You can use any cooked chicken, such as grilled, baked, or poached chicken breasts or thighs. Shred or chop the chicken before adding it to the casserole.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas. Just make sure to cook them lightly before adding to the casserole to ensure they are tender.
How do I make my own Alfredo sauce? To make homemade Alfredo sauce, melt ½ cup of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 cup of heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in 1 ½ cups of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Can I use whole wheat pasta? Yes, you can use whole wheat or any other type of pasta you prefer. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions.
How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Can I make this dish gluten-free? To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the Alfredo sauce and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What can I serve with this casserole? This casserole pairs well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. It’s a hearty dish that complements lighter sides.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
In conclusion, Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and cheesy Alfredo sauce, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe with your loved ones!