The smell of creamy sauce bubbling in the oven brings back memories of cozy dinners and laughter. Chicken Alfredo Bake is capturing hearts on Pinterest right now, and for good reason! It’s a comforting, cheesy dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
This recipe is your go-to combo of tender chicken, fettuccine, and that rich creamy sauce we all love. It’s simple, cozy, and made with pantry staplesjust like your grandma used to make, but a whole lot quicker! Full details in the blog!
This chicken alfredo bake is a creamy chicken alfredo casserole that combines tender chicken with penne and a rich Alfredo sauce. Perfect as a baked chicken alfredo pasta dish, it makes a comforting meal popular in many homes.
Ingredients
Scale
12 ounces penne pasta cooked in salted water according to package directions
3 cups diced cooked chicken
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided use
salt and pepper to taste
cooking spray
1 tablespoon parsley chopped
Instructions
Heat your oven to 375 degrees and lightly spray a 3 quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the garlic, cooking just 30 seconds until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute to form a roux.
Slowly pour in the milk and cream, stirring constantly and letting the sauce simmer until it thickens.
Mix in parmesan cheese, half of the mozzarella, and season with salt and pepper until the cheese melts completely.
Combine the cooked pasta and chicken in a large bowl then pour the creamy sauce over and toss gently to coat everything well.
Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until the mixture bubbles and the cheese turns lightly golden.
Finish by sprinkling chopped parsley over the top and serve immediately.
Notes
For crisp tops, broil 2–3 minutes at the end
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Category:Main
Method:Baked
Cuisine:Italian
Nutrition
Calories:644kcal
Sugar:6g
Sodium:569mg
Fat:34g
Saturated Fat:24g
Carbohydrates:51g
Fiber:2g
Protein:35g
Cholesterol:160mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Alfredo Bake is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness that feels like a warm embrace. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, it checks all the boxes for comfort food lovers. Here’s why you’re going to love it:
Simple to Make: With just a few basic ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.
Kid-Approved: Pasta, chicken, and melty cheese? It’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Make Ahead: Ideal for prepping in advanceyou can toss it all together, store it in the fridge, and bake when you’re ready for dinner.
Endless Comfort: It’s the kind of meal that brings back nostalgic memories of family dinners filled with stories and laughter.
Key Ingredients & Tools
Before you get started, here’s a quick look at the essentials you’ll need to make this comforting casserole:
Pasta: 12 ounces of penne pasta, perfect for holding that luscious sauce.
Chicken: 3 cups of diced cooked chicken, adding hearty protein to the dish.
Buttery Base: A mix of butter, flour, garlic, whole milk, and heavy cream to create a silky creamy sauce.
Cheese: Grated parmesan for rich flavor, plus shredded mozzarella for a wonderfully melty topping.
Tools: A large pan for making the sauce, a bowl for combining ingredients, and a baking dish to bring it all together.
Simple Steps to Make It
Let’s dive into the heart of the recipe. Making this Chicken Alfredo Bake involves just a few straightforward steps:
Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 375°F and lightly spray a 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray.
Make the Sauce: In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for an additional minute.
Add Creaminess: Gradually pour in the milk and cream while stirring constantly. Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens. Stir in the parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of mozzarella. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta and diced chicken. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top. This final layer adds a deliciously golden finish.
Bake and Serve: Bake for about 20 minutes, until the dish is bubbling and the cheese on top is golden. Garnish with chopped parsley just before serving.
Step
Timing
Preheat Oven
10 minutes
Prepare Sauce
10 minutes
Combine Ingredients
5 minutes
Bake
20 minutes
Easy Customizations
This recipe is fantastic as is, but feel free to personalize it with these simple tweaks:
Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with your favorite vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. The creamy sauce will keep it just as delicious!
Herbs & Spice: Add Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, or fresh herbs of your choice to enhance the flavor profile.
Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a fun twist on the classic flavors.
How to Serve & Store
This Chicken Alfredo Bake is wonderful fresh from the oven but also holds up beautifully for meal prep and leftovers.
Serving: Pair it with a fresh side salad or warm garlic bread to complete the mealit’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven to enjoy the melty, creamy goodness again.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cover it tightly with foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Expert Says
The creamy sauce in this Chicken Alfredo Bake balances fat and protein perfectly, enhancing both flavor and texture. Using a combination of Parmesan and cream creates a rich, satisfying taste that makes this dish ideal for cozy family meals.
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The Long Road to the Ideal Chicken Alfredo Bake
This Chicken Alfredo Bake is the result of a true labor of love, perfected after many trials. I still laugh when I remember mistaking powdered sugar for flour, ending up with a sweet mishap! After all those kitchen adventures, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s creamy, comforting, and absolutely delicious.
FAQs ( Chicken Alfredo Bake )
How to store leftovers?
To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to two months. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to maintain creaminess.
Can I use frozen chicken?
For best results, use thawed chicken in this dish. If you only have frozen chicken, cook it completely before adding to the casserole as it might not cook through in the baking process. This ensures even cooking and great flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this meal ahead of time. Assemble the dish completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
What are the best sides to serve?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce. Both options add freshness and balance.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers enhances nutrition and flavor. Just cook them slightly before mixing them into the dish to ensure they are tender once baked.
Conclusion
This Chicken Alfredo Bake is like a comforting hug in casserole form, bubbling with cheese and rich sauce that fills your kitchen with warmth. It’s simple enough to make on a busy weekday, and the aroma alone will bring everyone to the table. Who doesn’t need a little extra comfort sometimes?
For a fun twist, try adding your favorite vegetables or sprinkle in some Italian herbs for an extra burst of flavor! Remember, leftovers are a joystore them in the fridge and reheat in the oven to enjoy that melted goodness again. A little tip I’ve found helpful is to add a dash of garlic powder when reheating to revive the flavors.
I’d love to see your versions of this dish! Did you grow up with a favorite casserole like this? Don’t forget to save or share this recipe with your loved onescooking together is what makes a house feel like home. Happy baking, friends!
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.
