Chicken Alfredo Bake – Creamy, Cheesy & Easy Pasta Dish

Chicken Alfredo Bake is the ultimate comfort food—a rich, creamy, and cheesy pasta dish that combines the velvety smoothness of Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or looking for a hearty meal to impress guests, this Chicken Alfredo Bake recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Alfredo Bake

• Creamy and Cheesy Goodness – A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan makes this dish irresistibly gooey.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions make this recipe perfect for beginners.
• Great for Leftovers – This dish tastes just as delicious the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
• Customizable – Add veggies or swap proteins to make it your own.

Ingredients Needed for Chicken Alfredo Bake

For the Pasta and Chicken:

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 3 cups cooked chicken, diced

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• Cooking spray
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions to Make Chicken Alfredo Bake

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, following the package instructions.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until it begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, diced chicken, and Alfredo sauce.
2. Stir until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.

4. Assemble the Bake

1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
3. Sprinkle 1½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.

5. Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
2. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
3. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to set.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Chicken Alfredo Bake

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has additives that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better when baked.
• Try Different Proteins: Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a twist.
• Add Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli can add extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make It Spicy: A dash of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat.

FAQs About Chicken Alfredo Bake

1. Can I Use Store-Bought Alfredo Sauce?

Yes! If you’re short on time, store-bought Alfredo sauce can work, but homemade offers the best flavor and texture.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

3. Can I Freeze Chicken Alfredo Bake?

Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.

4. What Side Dishes Go Well with Chicken Alfredo Bake?

This dish pairs well with a fresh Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

5. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything ahead, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

6. How Do I Prevent the Bake from Drying Out?

Covering the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes helps retain moisture.

Conclusion

This Chicken Alfredo Bake is the perfect dish for any occasion—whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or an easy recipe to impress guests. With its rich Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and melted cheese, every bite is indulgent and satisfying. Plus, the recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own. Try it today and enjoy the ultimate creamy, cheesy pasta bake!

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