If you’re looking for a dish that combines creamy richness, comforting pasta, and tender chicken all baked to bubbly perfection, this Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, blending the luscious smoothness of homemade Alfredo sauce with cheesy goodness and a satisfying baked finish that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish promises to deliver that perfect blend of flavors and textures that feels both indulgent and deeply comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is built on simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the al dente penne that holds every creamy bite, to the rich blend of cheeses that create that irresistible golden crust, every component plays a vital role in making this dish memorable.
- 12 ounces penne pasta: Holds sauce beautifully thanks to its tube shape, ensuring every forkful is coated perfectly.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced: Adds hearty protein and a tender bite, making this bake a full meal.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Creates the silky base for the Alfredo sauce and adds a fragrant richness.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to creamy perfection without being too heavy.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and depth of flavor.
- 2 cups whole milk: Provides creaminess and balances the richness of the cheese in the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Elevates the sauce with extra velvety texture and indulgence.
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, savory backbone to the sauce that’s classic Alfredo.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts into a luscious topping and adds gooey, stretchy delight.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that bring all the flavors together beautifully.
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a pop of freshness and color that makes every plate shine.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 3-quart baking dish. This ensures the bake won’t stick and will come out effortlessly when it’s perfectly cooked and bubbling hot from the oven.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Cook your penne pasta in salted boiling water until it’s al dente, meaning tender but with a slight bite. This texture helps the pasta hold up during baking without becoming mushy. Drain and set aside so it’s ready to be combined with other flavorful elements.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step releases the garlic’s wonderful aroma that will infuse the sauce. Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux, which is the thickening base for your sauce. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken as it simmers gently. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and half of the mozzarella until they melt seamlessly into a creamy, cheesy sauce. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, giving your sauce that perfect balance.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
In a large bowl, mix the cooked penne, diced chicken, and Alfredo sauce until every bite is coated generously with the sauce. This combination mingles the tender chicken with the comforting pasta and rich cheese sauce creating a harmony of flavors sure to please every palate.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
Transfer the pasta mixture into your greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese for a luscious, bubbling topping. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese has melted beautifully and the bake is bubbling around the edges. For an irresistible golden crust, pop it under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes — watch carefully to get the perfect golden finish without burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and a hint of freshness. Serve the Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe hot for the ultimate comfort food experience that everyone will flock to.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is the easiest and most effective garnish to add vibrancy and a touch of herbal brightness to this rich dish. You could also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or even cracked black pepper to elevate the presentation and flavor complexity.
Side Dishes
This creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides like a fresh green salad with vinaigrette or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are also fantastic companions, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in smaller ramekins for a personal touch, or layer this dish with spinach or mushrooms for added depth and color. You might also sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top before baking for a satisfying crunch that contrasts the creamy interior.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your feast, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days, maintaining its creamy texture and cheesy goodness.
Freezing
For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully. Portion the casserole or freeze it whole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure it is fully cooled before wrapping tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly throughout, which usually takes about 20 minutes. Cover with foil to keep the top from drying out, then remove the foil for the last few minutes if you want to revive that melty cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta shapes for this Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is great for holding the sauce, rigatoni, fusilli, or even rotini work wonderfully as well. Just choose a pasta that can capture the creamy sauce in its crevices.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free or lighter?
Yes, you can substitute the milk and cream with plant-based alternatives such as oat or almond milk, and use dairy-free cheeses. For a lighter version, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese slightly.
How can I make this Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe spicier?
Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce or mixing in some chopped jalapeños will give a pleasant, gentle heat. You can also spice up the chicken with Cajun seasoning before mixing it in.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance and bake it later?
Definitely! Assemble the bake completely, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days or entertaining.
What is the best way to cook the chicken for this recipe?
Using cooked, diced chicken breast or rotisserie chicken works wonderfully. If cooking raw chicken, pan-sear or bake seasoned chicken breasts until fully cooked, then dice and mix into the bake.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is more than just a meal it’s pure comfort delivered in every cheesy, creamy forkful. Whether you’re treating your family or craving a satisfying dish for yourself, this recipe offers a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. I encourage you to give it a try and discover just how easy and rewarding it is to make such a timeless favorite at home.
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Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake combines tender penne pasta, juicy diced chicken, and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce baked to bubbly perfection with mozzarella cheese. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners, featuring a golden, cheesy topping and fresh parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced
Alfredo Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 3-quart baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in salted water until it is al dente, which usually takes about 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the sauce is smooth. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Add Cheeses: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and ½ cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, diced chicken, and Alfredo sauce thoroughly until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
- Broil for Golden Topping: For a golden, slightly crispy crust, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve the Chicken Alfredo Bake warm for optimal flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to avoid mushy texture after baking.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor in the Alfredo sauce.
- You can substitute cooked shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Broiling at the end adds a deliciously crispy cheese topping but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Add steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetable boost.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
