What if you could level up your classic Alfredo dinner into a show-stopping, ultra-creamy sensation—while sneaking in more veggies and slashing prep time? Enter: Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Roll-Ups. This recipe has swiftly risen in popularity according to Google Trends, with searches for “chicken and broccoli Alfredo recipes” growing by over 28% in the last year. But forget the usual casserole or pasta bowl—these roll-ups wrap savory chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and decadent Alfredo sauce inside lasagna noodles for a meal that’s both comfortingly familiar and delightfully creative. Curious if this twist is worth a shot? Let’s roll into why Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Roll-Ups just might be the irresistible family dinner you didn’t know you needed.
Want more high-protein inspiration? Check out these cheesy garlic chicken wraps for another mouthwatering twist!
Ingredients List
Get ready for a flavor-packed experience: these Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Roll-Ups combine succulent shredded chicken, bright fresh broccoli, and silky smooth Alfredo. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or poached)
- 1 ½ cups broccoli florets, steamed until just fork-tender (frozen works too—just thaw and drain well)
- 1 ½ cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or high-quality store-bought for best results)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded for oozy, melty pull
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated, for depth and a nutty kick
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 small clove, finely minced)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Ingredient Swaps & Enhancements
- Swap broccoli for spinach, asparagus, or roasted peppers for a seasonal twist.
- Sub cooked turkey or leftover roasted chicken for a leaner option.
- Use gluten-free pasta and Alfredo for dietary needs.
- Try a vegan Alfredo sauce and plant-based chicken to make this dish fully plant-based!
Craving more veggie-powered meals? Visit this veggie-packed quinoa casserole that’s both hearty and nutritious.
Timing
One reason Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Roll-Ups have become a weeknight must? It’s 90-minute total prep-to-table time, about 20% faster than most traditional baked pasta dishes. Here’s the breakdown:
- Prep time: 30 minutes (includes boiling noodles, cooking chicken, and prepping broccoli)
- Assembly time: 10 minutes
- Bake time: 30 minutes
- Rest/cool time: 5–10 minutes before serving
Total time: 75–80 minutes
Servings: 8 hearty roll-ups (serves 4)
Pressed for time and want something even quicker? These teriyaki chicken rice bowls take under 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Noodles and Prep the Components
Boil lasagna noodles according to package directions, salting the water generously for flavor. Meanwhile, lightly steam broccoli until bright green and tender. Shred your cooked chicken with two forks.
Tip: Prevent noodle sticking by spreading cooked noodles on a greased sheet or parchment.
2. Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, broccoli, half the mozzarella, half the Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly blended.
Pro tip: Toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a tangy twist!
3. Assemble the Roll-Ups
Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce in the bottom of a 9×13” baking dish. Lay cooked noodles flat and add 3–4 tablespoons of filling on each. Gently roll up and place seam-side down in dish.
4. Top and Bake
Pour remaining Alfredo evenly over roll-ups. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered 10 minutes more, or until cheese bubbles and turns golden brown.
Finishing touch: Garnish with fresh parsley and a crack of black pepper before serving.
Love Italian-inspired casseroles? Don’t miss this classic homemade lasagna for another family favorite!
Nutritional Information
Based on average serving size (2 roll-ups):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 33g
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
Data Insight: These roll-ups offer 25% more protein than a standard Alfredo pasta bowl, and incorporating broccoli boosts daily vitamin C intake by 50%.
For another tasty, protein-rich meal, check out these sausage egg and cheese breakfast roll-ups!
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to make your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Roll-Ups even healthier without sacrificing taste? Here’s how:
- Swap out Alfredo: Use light Alfredo or make your own with low-fat milk and Greek yogurt.
- Pump up the veggies: Double the broccoli or add spinach and mushrooms.
- Go leaner: Use poached chicken breast or turkey.
- Lower the carbs: Substitute zucchini “noodles” for lasagna pasta.
- Dairy-free/Vegan: Use a creamy cashew Alfredo and plant-based mozzarella.
Looking for more lightened-up comfort food ideas? This keto hamburger broccoli skillet will hit the spot.
Serving Suggestions
Amp up your roll-ups with presentation magic:
- Serve with a bright, zesty side salad like cucumber strawberry salad or roasted green beans.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley, lemon zest, or a drizzle of pesto for pop.
- Make it a cozy meal: Pair with warm crusty bread, a sparkling lemonade, or a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio.
- Hosting? Arrange on a platter with decorative parmesan “snow” and herbs.
For more spring-inspired sides, try this spring salad recipe!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the noodles: Mushy noodles fall apart—aim for al dente.
- Too much sauce up front: Save most Alfredo for topping; too much inside can make roll-ups soggy.
- Watery broccoli: Drain and pat dry your broccoli to prevent excess moisture.
- Crowding the rolls: Allow spacing in the baking dish for crispier edges.
- Skipping rest time: Give them 5–10 minutes out of the oven—this sets the cheese and makes serving neater.
Avoiding kitchen mishaps? These fail-proof egg custard tips might help your next dessert too!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge up to 4 days.
- Reheat covered in the oven at 325°F with a splash of milk or extra sauce to keep them creamy.
- Freeze baked or unbaked roll-ups tightly wrapped in foil; thaw overnight before baking or reheating.
- Make ahead: Prep everything, refrigerate assembled (unbaked) up to 24 hours, then bake when needed.
Want more make-ahead family meals? These sheet pan chicken pitas with herby ranch slaw are crowd-pleasers!
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Roll-Ups combine comfort, protein, and lively textures in every cheesy swirl. With simple steps, flexible ingredients, and a family-friendly prep time, it’s no wonder this recipe is becoming a weeknight star. Make a batch, share your creative spins, and tag us with your delicious results. Ready to try something new? Dive into more family-favorite meals—explore thin chicken breast recipes for endless inspiration!
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Absolutely! Just pick a high-quality, thick sauce for best texture.
2. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes—use your favorite gluten-free lasagna noodles and Alfredo.
3. What can I substitute for chicken?
Cooked turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even white beans for a vegetarian option work well.
4. Do roll-ups freeze well?
Yes, both baked and unbaked—they’re perfect for make-ahead meals.
5. Any other veggies I can try?
Spinach, roasted peppers, or sautéed mushrooms are all great choices.
Still hungry for more? Discover more creative meal options in our chicken and dressing collection!