This Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. The combination of tender rigatoni pasta, juicy rotisserie chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy Alfredo sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, creates a delicious and satisfying meal. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights when you want something homemade and delicious. Let’s dive into the detailed steps to create this delectable baked pasta dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound rigatoni: Provides a sturdy pasta that holds up well during baking.
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded: Adds convenient, pre-cooked chicken for ease and flavor.
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce: Creates a creamy, rich base for the dish.
- 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets: Adds freshness and a nutritional boost.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, hand shredded: Melts beautifully to create a gooey topping.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty flavor to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Adds depth and a touch of warmth to the dish.
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when you’re ready to bake the casserole.
2. Boil 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 instructions suggest, until it’s almost al dente.
- During the last 2-3 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. This way, the broccoli cooks until just tender but retains its bright color and nutrients.
3. Drain and Transfer:
Drain the pasta and broccoli together in a colander. Shake off any excess water to prevent the dish from becoming watery. Transfer the pasta and broccoli to a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
4. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the baking dish with the pasta and broccoli.
- Pour in the Alfredo sauce, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Mix everything thoroughly to combine all the ingredients evenly.
5. Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Follow with an even layer of hand-shredded mozzarella cheese. This will create a deliciously gooey and golden topping.
6. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25 minutes. The dish is ready when the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once the dish is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven. Let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Pair this baked Alfredo with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and added freshness.
- Accompaniments: Serve with a glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink option.
Notes:
- Chicken Preparation: If you don’t have a rotisserie chicken, you can use any cooked chicken. Poach, grill, or bake chicken breasts and then shred or dice them.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Assemble the dish, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, add an additional 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
- Customization: Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the dish. You can also use different types of pasta or cheese according to your preference.
FAQs:
Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce?
Yes, homemade Alfredo sauce works wonderfully in this recipe. It allows you to control the ingredients and flavor, making the dish even more delicious.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is great for this recipe, you can use other types of pasta such as penne, ziti, or even macaroni. Just ensure you cook it to al dente before baking.
What can I use instead of rotisserie chicken?
If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, you can use cooked and shredded chicken breasts or thighs. You can also use leftover chicken from another meal.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, to make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Ensure the Alfredo sauce you use does not contain chicken broth or other meat-based ingredients.
How can I add more flavor to the dish?
For added flavor, you can mix in some sautéed onions and garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. You can also use seasoned rotisserie chicken for an extra layer of flavor.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if fresh is not available. Simply thaw the broccoli and pat it dry before adding it to the boiling pasta water to ensure it cooks evenly.
What other cheeses can I use?
In addition to mozzarella and Parmesan, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Asiago for different flavor profiles.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is excellent for meal prep. You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Bake it just before serving for a quick and convenient meal.
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, be sure to cook it 3-4 minutes less than the package instructions, so it is still firm (al dente) before baking.
Can I add other protein sources?
Certainly! You can add cooked shrimp, turkey bacon, or even crumbled sausage to the dish for added protein and flavor.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, use a dairy-free Alfredo sauce and substitute the cheese with dairy-free alternatives. Ensure the butter and milk in the sauce are also dairy-free.
This Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is sure to be a hit with its creamy, cheesy goodness and satisfying combination of flavors and textures. Enjoy making and savoring this delicious and easy-to-prepare casserole!