Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish brings rich flavors and satisfying textures together in one incredibly easy casserole. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe promises to deliver a dish everyone will rave about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients that come together to create a luscious and hearty bake. Each component plays a pivotal role, from the creamy Alfredo sauce to the melty mozzarella topping, giving the dish a comforting texture and delectable flavor.

• 12 ounces penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to soak up all that creamy sauce without getting mushy.
• 3 cups cooked chicken, diced: Adds protein and heartiness, making it more than just a pasta dish.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Essential for creating the rich base of the Alfredo sauce.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to the ideal creamy consistency.
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic: Gives a lovely aromatic punch that enhances the sauce’s depth.
• 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and balances out the heaviness of the dish.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Doubles down on richness for an indulgent sauce.
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides that signature nutty, salty flavor of Alfredo sauce.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts beautifully for gooey cheesiness on top and inside.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: The simple seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a splash of color and fresh brightness to finish.

How to Make Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 3-quart baking dish generously. This prevents sticking and helps your bake come out effortlessly when it’s done.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until just al dente. This ensures the pasta maintains a firm bite even after baking. Drain and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and gently sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step infuses the butter with that irresistible garlicky aroma that makes Alfredo sauce unforgettable.

Step 4: Create the Sauce Base

Whisk in the flour and cook it for a minute to remove the raw taste, creating a smooth roux that will thicken the sauce beautifully.

Step 5: Add Cream and Milk

Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture is silky and starts to thicken. Patience here pays off with a sauce that clings perfectly to pasta and chicken.

Step 6: Cheese it Up

Mix in the grated Parmesan and half of the mozzarella cheese, stirring until everything melts into a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, balancing richness with a bit of seasoning.

Step 7: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

In a large bowl, toss the cooked penne and diced chicken with the Alfredo sauce until every piece is evenly coated, making sure flavorful bites are guaranteed in every spoonful.

Step 8: Assemble the Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, which will melt and brown beautifully in the oven for that irresistible golden crust.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. For an extra touch, broil the dish for 2 to 3 minutes to achieve that gorgeous golden topping everyone loves.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. Serve the Chicken Alfredo Bake while it’s warm and gooey; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe

Garnishes

Chopped fresh parsley isn’t just a pretty face; it adds a mild herbal note that brightens the overall flavor of this creamy, rich dish. For a bit of bite and color, you can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or extra grated Parmesan before serving.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Alfredo Bake shines on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus creates a wonderful balance. The freshness and crunch contrast beautifully with the creamy pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the bake in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch at dinner parties. You could also spoon it into toasted bread bowls for a fun, edible presentation that amps up the coziness factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This bake keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve the creamy texture and flavors, and you’ll have easy, hearty meals ready to go.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish before baking by covering it tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, which helps maintain the gooey texture. Alternatively, microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally to avoid drying out the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Cooked and diced chicken thighs add a bit more moisture and flavor, making the bake even more flavorful and tender.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute dairy milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese, but keep in mind the texture and flavor might vary.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The Alfredo sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently before combining with the pasta and chicken to keep it creamy.

What type of pasta works best for this bake?

Penne is ideal because its tubular shape holds the sauce well, but rigatoni, rotini, or even fusilli would also work beautifully.

How can I make this bake extra cheesy?

Feel free to add a mix of cheeses like provolone or fontina along with mozzarella for a richer, more complex cheese flavor that melts perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort straight from your oven to the dinner table. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and bubbly cheese topping make it one of those dishes everyone asks for again. Give it a try—you just might find a new favorite to cook again and again.

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