Introduction
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that bring ultimate comfort to any meal. This dish features tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce, all baked to golden, bubbly perfection. It’s an excellent option for a hearty family dinner, meal prep, or even a potluck dish that will impress everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Irresistibly Creamy and Cheesy – The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella makes this dish extra rich.
- Easy to Prepare – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make it a great weeknight meal.
- Great for Leftovers – It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal planning.
- A Family Favorite – Both kids and adults will love its comforting flavors.
The Origin of Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo originated from the classic Italian dish “Fettuccine Alfredo,” created by Alfredo di Lelio in Rome. It became popular in America when heavy cream was added to the sauce, making it even richer. The baked version of Chicken Alfredo is an American twist, elevating the dish with a cheesy, baked finish that enhances its comfort food appeal.
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Chicken:
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups cooked, shredded or diced chicken (grilled or rotisserie)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta until al dente, following package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously.
- Add Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring until fully melted.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Assemble the Pasta Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Cooking Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Tips:
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Season the Pasta Water – Salting the water ensures the pasta is flavorful from the start.
- Let It Rest – Allow the baked pasta to sit for 5 minutes before serving for a better texture.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Overcooking the Pasta – Pasta should be cooked al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when baked.
- Skipping the Foil Cover – Covering the dish while baking prevents the top from burning before the inside is fully heated.
- Using Low-Fat Dairy – For the best creamy consistency, use full-fat cream and cheese.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh Caesar salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli for a nutritious touch.
- A glass of white wine like Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Chicken – A great source of lean protein that helps with muscle growth.
- Parmesan Cheese – Rich in calcium, promoting bone health.
- Garlic – Contains antioxidants and helps boost immunity.
- Whole Milk & Cream – Provides essential vitamins like Vitamin D and calcium.
Summary Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan (for topping)
Instructions:
- Cook pasta until al dente and set aside.
- Prepare Alfredo sauce by melting butter, sautéing garlic, and adding cream, milk, and cheese.
- Mix pasta, chicken, and sauce, then transfer to a baking dish.
- Top with cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Interesting Facts About Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
- This dish is an Americanized version of the classic Italian Fettuccine Alfredo.
- It’s a favorite for meal prep because it reheats so well.
- Alfredo sauce was originally made without cream—just butter and Parmesan!
Enjoy this Juicy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake, a comforting and creamy dish that’s guaranteed to be a family favorite!
