There’s something magical about the aroma of melting cheese and creamy pasta wafting through the kitchen, pulling you back to cozy family dinners. This chicken alfredo casserole is trending for good reason! It’s the ultimate comfort food, capturing hearts on TikTok and Pinterest with its cheesy goodness and hearty vibes.
This dish is a delightful twist on the classic! Think tender chicken, alfredo sauce, and pasta all snuggled up in one pan. It’s as easy as it soundsjust layer and bake. It’s like your grandma’s version, but faster and even more satisfying! Full details in the blog!
Growing up, my family loved casseroles. They felt warm and welcoming, always ready after a long day. I’ve fine-tuned this recipe so it’s quick and comforting for busy nights. Trust me, I tested it. You’ll love the secret!
This chicken alfredo casserole recipe is a creamy chicken pasta bake perfect for satisfying comfort food cravings. It’s an easy oven chicken alfredo dish featuring cheesy layers and tender chicken for a weeknight chicken bake.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups cooked chicken shredded
12 ounces penne pasta
2 cups Alfredo sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
1 cup frozen peas thawed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped optional
Instructions
Set your oven to 350°F 175°C to warm up.
Cook the penne pasta based on package directions until just firm. Drain the water and put the pasta aside.
Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and toss in the cooked chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the chicken is fully seasoned.
In a big bowl, stir together the pasta, chicken mixture, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and peas until everything is combined evenly.
Pour this mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top to create a golden crust.
Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
Take it out of the oven, let it cool briefly, and garnish with fresh parsley if you want.
Notes
For crisp tops, broil 2–3 minutes at the end
Cook Time:25-30 minutes
Category:Main Course
Method:Baked
Cuisine:American
Why It’s a Family Favorite
There’s something about the aroma of a bubbling, cheesy casserole that brings everyone together at the dinner table. This chicken alfredo casserole evokes a cozy sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of heartwarming family gatherings. It’s not only easy to make but also turns even the busiest nights into something special.
Why will you love this dish? It’s practically a crowd-pleaser! Packed with chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in with friends. Plus, it comes together in less than an hourwhat’s not to love?
One dish means fewer dishes to washhooray for easy cleanup!
Customizable: add your favorite veggies or swap in different cheeses!
Classic comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s dive into the heart of this delicious meal! Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful chicken alfredo casserole:
Cooked chicken (2 cups, shredded): Perfect for using up leftovers!
Penne pasta (12 ounces): This hearty pasta holds onto the sauce just right.
Alfredo sauce (2 cups): The creamy base that makes this dish so comforting.
Cheeses (1 cup mozzarella and 1/2 cup Parmesan): For that lovely, cheesy top layer.
Frozen peas (1 cup, thawed): A splash of color and nutrition that’s easy to add!
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): To sauté the chicken and seasonings.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon), black pepper (1/2 teaspoon), and salt (1/4 teaspoon): Essential for perfect flavoring.
Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Optional garnish that adds freshness.
This combination not only tastes incredible but also invites experimentation! You can swap in whole wheat pasta or toss in some chopped spinach for an extra veggie boost.
Simple Steps to Make It
Preheat: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready.
Cook the pasta: Boil the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
Mix it all together: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken mixture, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, and peas. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
Transfer and bake: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with extra mozzarella and Parmesan for a golden crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes, then enjoy! Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Easy Customizations
Feeling adventurous? This meal welcomes your creative touches!
Add veggies: Incorporate broccoli, spinach, or diced red peppers to boost nutrition and color.
Spice it up: If you want some heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken mix.
Cheese swaps: For a gourmet twist, try Gruyère or fontina to change up the flavor profile.
These simple tweaks can elevate this cozy dish to a whole new level. After all, this recipe is all about making it your own!
How to Serve & Store
Once baked, this casserole is as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate! Serve it straight from the oven with garlic bread or a simple salad to balance the creamy richness. You’ll find everyone gathering for seconds!
Storage Method
Time Frame
Refrigerator
3–4 days
Freezer
2–3 months
To store leftovers, cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave until steaming hot. It might not look as perfect as fresh-baked, but the comforting flavors remain just as delicious!
Expert Says
Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a wonderful way to use leftover chicken while creating a satisfying meal. Creamy sauces enhance the flavor and moisture, but be mindful of portion sizes as they can be calorie-dense. Adding vegetables not only boosts nutritional value but also brings vibrant color and texture to the dish.
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The Road to the Ultimate Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Perfecting this Chicken Alfredo Casserole took more attempts than I care to admittoo much cheese once, and a gloppy mess another. But through each trial, I found the perfect balance of creamy, dreamy goodness. I can’t wait for you to enjoy this family favorite that’s finally just right!
FAQs ( Chicken Alfredo Casserole )
What is the best way to store leftover casserole?
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months, thawing in the fridge before reheating.
Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is classic, penne or rotini also work great. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente before baking, as it will absorb some sauce in the oven.
What vegetables can I add to the casserole?
This dish can be made even heartier by adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers. Blanching them before adding ensures they stay vibrant and tender while baking.
How do I reheat leftover casserole?
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil to retain moisture and bake at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal.
Conclusion
In just about 30 minutes, this chicken alfredo casserole will fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma that invites everyone to the dinner table. The creamy, cheesy layers create a comforting meal, making every bite feel like a warm hug. You’ll love how it turns outit’s truly satisfying!
If you’re feeling creative, try adding sautéed mushrooms or swapping the penne for rotiniit holds sauce beautifully! A little tip from my aunt’s kitchen: leftover casserole reheats wonderfully and often tastes even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make extra!
Have you made this cozy casserole? I’d love to hear your thoughtsshare your photos or fond memories of family dinners in the comments! This recipe is perfect for gathering loved ones, so don’t forget to pin it for your next weeknight meal. Here’s to delicious dishes made with love!
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
