Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

### Instructions

#### 1. **Prepare the Chicken**:
– Season the chicken breasts with **salt** and **pepper** on both sides.
– Heat **olive oil** in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).
– Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into bite-sized pieces or strips. Set aside.

#### 2. **Cook the Broccoli**:
– While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the **broccoli florets** and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes, just until they’re tender but still vibrant green.
– Drain the broccoli and set aside. If you prefer, you can also use frozen broccoli, but fresh tends to retain a better texture.

#### 3. **Cook the Pasta**:
– In the same pot of boiling water, cook the **penne pasta** according to the package directions, about 9-11 minutes, until al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
– Drain the pasta and set aside.

#### 4. **Make the Alfredo Sauce**:
– In a large saucepan, melt the **butter** over medium heat. Add the **minced garlic** and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
– Pour in the **heavy cream** and **whole milk**, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to heat through.
– Stir in the **Parmesan cheese** and continue to whisk until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
– Season the sauce with **salt**, **black pepper**, and a pinch of **nutmeg** (if using). Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.

#### 5. **Assemble the Casserole**:
– Preheat the oven to **375°F (190°C)** and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the **cooked pasta**, **chicken**, and **broccoli**. Pour the creamy Alfredo sauce over the top and toss everything together until evenly coated.
– Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.

#### 6. **Top with Cheese**:
– Sprinkle the **shredded mozzarella cheese** and **grated Parmesan cheese** evenly over the top of the casserole.

#### 7. **Bake the Casserole**:
– Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
– For a crispier top, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

#### 8. **Serve and Enjoy**:
– Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set, making it easier to serve.
– Dish up generous portions of this creamy, cheesy goodness and enjoy!

### Tips for the Perfect Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

– **Use Fresh Chicken**: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh chicken breasts. You can also use rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.
– **Don’t Overcook the Pasta**: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooking it can result in mushy pasta once baked.
– **Add Extra Veggies**: While broccoli is classic, feel free to add other veggies like **spinach**, **mushrooms**, or **bell peppers** for added nutrition and flavor.
– **Make Ahead**: This casserole can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before baking. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or foil and bake when you’re ready to eat.
– **Make It Spicy**: Add some **red pepper flakes** or a dash of **hot sauce** to the Alfredo sauce for a little heat if you like a spicy kick.

### Why Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo Is a Must-Try

Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo is the epitome of comfort food. The creamy Alfredo sauce is rich and flavorful, the chicken is tender, and the broccoli provides a nice texture and nutritional balance to the dish. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, it’s a decadent meal that’s easy to make and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing a meal ahead of time. With its balance of protein, veggies, and pasta, it’s filling and satisfying, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions.

### Conclusion

If you’re craving a comforting, creamy dish that’s both satisfying and delicious, look no further than **Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo**. This dish is packed with rich flavors, cheesy goodness, and wholesome ingredients that will make it an instant hit at your dinner table. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it the perfect choice for busy nights or when you want a comforting homemade meal without all the hassle.

Give it a try, and prepare to enjoy every indulgent bite!