Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets and cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Add water and cover to steam if needed.
- Remove chicken and broccoli mixture from the skillet and set aside.
- To make homemade Alfredo sauce, melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk (or half-and-half) until smooth.
- Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (optional).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken and broccoli mixture, and Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Don't overcook the pasta; al dente works best. Use freshly grated cheese for better melting. Toast breadcrumbs with butter and Parmesan for extra crunch (optional). Add red pepper flakes for a little heat (optional). Broil for extra color at the end (optional). Can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheated in the oven or microwave. Use frozen broccoli if needed. Experiment with different pasta shapes and vegetables.
