Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and pasta, all baked to perfection. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night at home. Not only is it delicious, but it is also easy to make, especially with rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken. Everyone will love its cheesy goodness!

How to Make Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

Ingredients:

8 ounces Penne pasta (This pasta shape holds the sauce well and adds a delightful texture.)
2 cups Cooked chicken, shredded (You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own chicken breasts.)
2 cups Alfredo sauce (Homemade or store-bought, this sauce is the star of the dish, providing creaminess and flavor.)
1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese (This cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey topping.)
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.)
1 teaspoon Garlic powder (For that extra kick of flavor.)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (A blend of herbs that enhances the overall taste.)
to taste Salt and pepper (Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.)
1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped (Adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Shred your cooked chicken if not already done. You can use leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken.
If making homemade Alfredo sauce, combine heavy cream, butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.

How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

Serve your Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake hot from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. You can also offer some extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want a bit more flavor.

How to Store Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

To store leftovers, allow the Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
You can adjust the amount of cheese based on your personal preference for cheesiness.
Add veggies like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Variation

Feel free to customize the Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake to your liking! You can add different vegetables, use different types of cheese, or even incorporate shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes, store-bought Alfredo sauce works great for this recipe and saves you time.

2. How can I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s straight from the fridge.