If you are craving a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe. It combines tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked penne, and a luxuriously creamy Alfredo sauce topped with a golden blanket of melted mozzarella cheese. Every bite bursts with rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it the perfect dish to gather around with family or friends. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is bound to become your new favorite go-to comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a key role in creating its signature creamy texture and savory flavor. From the juicy chicken to the blend of cheeses and aromatic herbs, every item on this list contributes to a deliciously balanced dish.
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast: shredded or cubed, providing tender protein that soaks up the sauce wonderfully.
- 12 oz penne pasta: cooked al dente for the perfect bite and to hold the sauce well.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: used to sauté garlic and enhance the depth of flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: bringing aromatic richness and a subtle spicy bite.
- 2 cups heavy cream: the creamy base that gives the sauce its luxurious texture.
- 1 cup whole milk: lightens the sauce slightly while keeping it indulgent.
- 1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese: delivers nutty, savory notes essential to Alfredo sauce.
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: for gooey meltiness and golden topping perfection.
- 1 teaspoon salt: enhances all the flavors just right.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: a fragrant blend of herbs to elevate the dish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): offers a fresh pop of color and brightness as a garnish.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for just about one minute until fragrant, releasing those mouthwatering aromas that instantly make your kitchen feel like a trattoria. Carefully pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This slow heat allows the cream to thicken without curdling, setting the stage for that silky Alfredo sauce.
Step 2: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Once the cream mixture simmers, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Keep stirring patiently until the cheese melts fully and the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened. This is where the magic happens—the sauce transforms into a velvety coating that will cling to every piece of pasta and chicken.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Next, fold the cooked chicken into the sauce, allowing every bite of chicken to be enveloped in that creamy goodness. In a large bowl, gently mix the cooked penne pasta with the chicken Alfredo sauce. Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, which will add a luscious stretch and gooey texture within the bake itself.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy serving later, then pour in your pasta and chicken mixture. Spread it evenly and sprinkle the remaining half cup of mozzarella cheese on top to create that irresistible golden crust. Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, until the sauce bubbles eagerly and the cheese turns a perfect shade of golden brown.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, give the Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe a gentle rest for about five minutes. This brief pause lets the flavors meld fully and makes serving easier. Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and a hint of fresh herbal brightness.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding freshly chopped parsley is a simple yet fantastic way to bring your Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe to life at the table. The green flecks contrast beautifully with the creamy, cheesy layers and provide a fresh, vibrant note that elevates the overall presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
To round out this rich and savory dish, consider serving it alongside crisp green salads or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or asparagus. These light and fresh sides create a perfect balance by providing texture and a touch of brightness that complements the creamy Alfredo bake.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins or small baking dishes to wow your guests and make it feel extra special. You can also layer in steamed spinach or mushrooms before baking for added flavor and color. Alternatively, swap penne for gluten-free pasta or whole wheat for a different texture and nutritional boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When properly stored, the flavors continue to develop, making the next-day meal just as delightful as the first.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Cool the bake completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For reheating, place your portion in an oven-safe dish and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes. Cover loosely with foil to prevent the top from drying out. If in a hurry, microwave on medium power in short intervals, stirring midway for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time while still delivering delicious results. Just shred or cube it and fold it right into the creamy sauce.
Is it possible to make this Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the penne pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. The creamy sauce and chicken remain untouched, so the dish stays just as satisfying.
Can I add vegetables to this bake?
Definitely! Steamed broccoli, spinach, or even peas are great additions that add color, nutrients, and subtle flavor contrasts. Stir them into the pasta mixture before baking.
How can I make the sauce less rich?
You can reduce the richness by substituting half of the heavy cream with whole milk or even a lower-fat milk, but keep in mind the texture will be slightly lighter. Adjust the seasoning to maintain flavor balance.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat in the oven covered with foil at a moderate temperature to keep the moisture locked in. If using a microwave, add a small splash of milk or water and cover loosely to prevent drying.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of creamy comfort food that’s easy enough for a busy night yet special enough for sharing. I seriously can’t recommend trying this enough—the combination of cheesy, garlicky, tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta just feels like home. Give it a whirl and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen repertoire.
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Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake is a comforting and delicious family dinner featuring tender cooked chicken, penne pasta, and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce baked to bubbly perfection with mozzarella cheese. It’s a perfect blend of cheesy goodness and savory flavors, easy to prepare and satisfying for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 12 oz penne pasta, cooked al dente
Sauce and Toppings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect baking temperature while you prepare the dish.
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned, which will infuse the oil with a rich flavor.
- Create the Alfredo sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened to coat the chicken perfectly.
- Add the chicken: Mix the cooked chicken into the sauce, stirring gently to ensure every piece is coated with the creamy Alfredo sauce for rich flavor.
- Combine pasta and sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the chicken Alfredo mixture. Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to add gooey richness to the dish.
- Prepare for baking: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese evenly over the top for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown, signaling that the dish is heated through and ready.
- Rest and garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking to set slightly, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a fresh, colorful finish before serving.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience and to save time.
- Adding steamed broccoli or spinach makes this dish more nutritious with extra vegetables.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta if you need the dish to be gluten-free friendly.
