If you’re craving a warm, hearty dish that combines creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, bright broccoli, and melty cheese — this Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake is your next dinner win. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing casserole that’s loaded with flavor and perfect for both weeknights and special gatherings.
No fussy prep, no complicated sauces, just rich comfort layered with pasta, veggies, and ooey-gooey cheese.
Why I Love This Recipe
This dish brings together everything I want in a baked pasta: the creamy Alfredo sauce, the satisfying bite of rigatoni, the earthy balance of broccoli, and tender, seared chicken with herbs and garlic. It’s also highly customizable and reheats like a dream — perfect for leftovers or make-ahead meals.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole has you covered.
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
Protein & Veggies:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1–2 cups broccoli florets, blanched (boil 2–3 mins, shock in cold water)
Pasta:
- 2 cups rigatoni noodles
Seasoning & Dairy:
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried herbs (oregano, thyme, or basil)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chicken bouillon powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Alfredo Sauce Base:
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra cheese (optional, for topping)
🛠️ Notes & Swaps
- Cheese: The feta adds a unique, slightly tangy depth—swap with cream cheese for a milder flavor.
- Pasta: Any short pasta will do—penne or ziti are great substitutes.
- Veggies: Add mushrooms or spinach to bulk up the veggies.
- No rigatoni? Use elbow, shells, or penne instead—anything that holds sauce well.
👩🍳 How to Make Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Season chicken breasts with paprika, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter, sear chicken 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Cool slightly and cube.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter. Add garlic powder and chicken bouillon, stir for 1 minute.
Pour in heavy cream, then stir in feta and Parmesan cheese. Stir gently over low heat until smooth and melted. Season to taste.
Step 4: Cook Pasta & Blanch Broccoli
Boil rigatoni in salted water until just al dente.
Blanch broccoli by boiling briefly, then shock in cold water. Drain both.
Step 5: Combine
In a large pot, gently toss together the pasta, broccoli, cubed chicken, and Alfredo sauce until everything is coated.
Step 6: Bake It
Transfer to the baking dish and top with extra cheese if desired.
Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until bubbling.
Step 7: Broil for Finish
Broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden, crispy top. Watch closely!
Step 8: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and dig in while it’s hot and cheesy.
🌟 Tips for Success
- Blanch broccoli just enough to keep color and a slight bite—it won’t turn to mush when baked.
- Undercook pasta slightly to avoid overcooking in the oven.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne to the Alfredo for extra warmth or kick.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This dish is ultra-satisfying on its own, but here are a few easy pairings:
- Crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Garlic knots or crusty artisan bread
- A glass of chilled white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
Round out your table with:
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a fusion side
- This One-Pan Breakfast Bake for a cozy brunch extension
- This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo for Southern flair
- These Easy Turkey Wings if you want to double up on protein
- This Beer Cheese Dip for a fun appetizer beforehand
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooled portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual servings with a splash of cream.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake is a delicious twist on classic comfort food. It’s rich and creamy, with bursts of freshness from the broccoli and a cheesy top that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for the week, this casserole is an easy win.
Tried it? Tag @chefmaniac in your kitchen creation pics! And don’t forget to follow for more one-pan magic, creamy pastas, and cozy baked favorites.
