Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Chicken:**
– Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
– Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and cook for about **6-7 minutes per side**, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest. Once cooled slightly, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

#### 2. **Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:**
– In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
– About 3 minutes before the pasta is finished cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot to steam them. Once the pasta is done, drain both the pasta and broccoli, and set them aside.

#### 3. **Make the Alfredo Sauce:**
– In a large saucepan, melt **1 tablespoon of butter** over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about **1 minute**, until fragrant.
– Pour in the **heavy cream** and **milk**, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing it to gently bubble for about 5 minutes.
– Gradually whisk in the **Parmesan cheese** until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with **garlic powder**, **salt**, and **pepper** to taste, and add **Italian seasoning** for an extra layer of flavor (if using).

#### 4. **Assemble the Baked Alfredo:**
– Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**.
– In a large baking dish (9×13 inches is ideal), combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, and sliced chicken. Pour the creamy Alfredo sauce over the mixture and toss everything together until the pasta, chicken, and broccoli are evenly coated with the sauce.
– Sprinkle **shredded mozzarella cheese** on top for a bubbly, golden crust when baked.

#### 5. **Bake the Dish:**
– Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for **20-25 minutes**, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling. If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.

#### 6. **Serve:**
– Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and extra flavor.

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

1. **Use Fresh Chicken:** For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. They are easy to cook and slice, and they absorb the flavors of the seasonings well.
2. **Customize the Veggies:** While broccoli is the classic choice, feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
3. **Make It Lighter:** For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. You can also use a reduced-fat cheese for the topping.
4. **Make Ahead:** This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil to prevent the top from drying out.
5. **Add Extra Cheese:** If you’re a cheese lover, you can increase the amount of mozzarella or Parmesan cheese for a cheesier, more indulgent dish. Try adding some shredded cheddar or fontina for extra flavor complexity.

### Why You’ll Love Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo:

1. **Creamy Comfort:** The rich Alfredo sauce coats the pasta, chicken, and broccoli, creating a velvety, comforting dish that’s both filling and satisfying.
2. **Nutrient-Packed:** With lean chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta, this dish offers a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates to fuel your day.
3. **Kid-Friendly:** The creamy, cheesy goodness makes this dish a hit with kids. The combination of chicken and broccoli offers a sneaky way to get them to eat their vegetables without them even realizing it!
4. **Versatile:** You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables, swapping out the chicken for another protein, or even making it vegetarian with just the pasta and sauce.
5. **Make Ahead and Leftovers:** This baked Alfredo is perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge for leftovers and can be reheated without losing its creamy texture, making it a go-to option for busy weeks.

### Conclusion:

**Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo** is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or as a special treat for your family, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and indulgent Alfredo sauce makes for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. So, next time you’re in the mood for something comforting and delicious, give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen!