Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound rigatoni pasta
  • 1 rotisserie chicken, meat shredded
  • 2 cups creamy Alfredo sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the rigatoni in a large pot of boiling salted water for about 3-4 minutes less than the package directions to keep it slightly undercooked. Add the broccoli florets in the last 3 minutes of cooking to soften them.
  3. Drain the pasta and broccoli, then transfer them to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  4. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the dish. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
  5. Top the mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
  6. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  7. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6


🍽️ Variations:

  • Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a vegetarian twist.
  • Different Pasta: Swap rigatoni with penne, ziti, or even bowtie pasta for variety.
  • Cheese Options: You can replace mozzarella with gouda or cheddar for a different cheesy flavor. You could also add some cream cheese for extra richness.
  • Meat Swap: Use turkey or sausage in place of chicken for a different flavor profile.

🔧 Tips:

  1. Chicken Substitution: If you don’t have a rotisserie chicken, you can cook and shred your own chicken breast or thighs. For extra flavor, season the chicken before cooking.
  2. Alfredo Sauce: For a lighter version, use a low-fat Alfredo sauce or even make your own with a combination of milk, butter, and Parmesan.
  3. Broccoli Texture: If you prefer softer broccoli, steam it separately before adding it to the dish.
  4. Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it in the oven until hot and bubbly.
  5. Crispier Topping: For a crispier cheese topping, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

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