Introduction

Chicken Alfredo Bake is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together the creamy richness of alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly baked pasta. This hearty casserole is the ultimate family meal, with its cheesy, gooey goodness and rich flavor. It combines the best elements of chicken alfredo—a classic Italian-inspired dish—with the convenience and deliciousness of a baked casserole. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or looking for a weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and can even be frozen for later use.

To achieve the best results, be sure to cook the pasta just al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. If you’re in a hurry, you can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time. Also, don’t skip the step of topping the casserole with extra cheese before baking, as it gives it that perfect golden, crispy crust on top.

How to Make Chicken Alfredo Bake

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Protein: 40g per serving

Able to serve: 6 people

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
• 8 oz penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
• 1 jar (15 oz) alfredo sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Cook the pasta: Boil the penne pasta according to the package instructions, but cook it al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Prepare the chicken: If using cooked chicken, shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. If using raw chicken, cook it thoroughly in a pan with a little olive oil, then shred it.
4. Make the sauce: In a large saucepan, combine the alfredo sauce and heavy cream. Stir over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and heated through. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, basil, salt, and pepper, and stir well.
5. Combine the pasta, chicken, and sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and the alfredo sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
6. Assemble the bake: Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top with mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy crust.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Serve: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes to set, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

• For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat version of alfredo sauce.
• Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe, saving you time on cooking the chicken.
• You can freeze this dish before baking. Simply assemble it, cover with plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, cook straight from the freezer, adding 10-15 extra minutes to the cook time.

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Bake is the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love. The creamy, cheesy pasta paired with tender chicken makes for a delicious and filling meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe. Happy cooking!