If you have ever dreamed of a dish that combines the comforting creaminess of Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, look no further. This Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is a heartwarming crowd-pleaser that turns simple ingredients into a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece. With the right balance of rich Parmesan sauce, juicy chicken pieces, and golden mozzarella topping, every bite feels like a hug for your taste buds. It’s the kind of dish I love making when I want something fuss-free yet deeply satisfying, bringing family and friends together over warm plates of pure comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients come together to create a luscious, creamy texture and vibrant flavors that make this dish unforgettable. Each component plays a vital role—whether it’s the garlic and butter building the sauce’s base or the cheese adding that irresistible gooey finish.
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta: These shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Essential for creating a silky smooth roux to thicken the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant, savory punch to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The secret behind the creamy texture, creating the perfect base for the sauce.
- 2 cups whole milk: Provides a rich, creamy foundation for the Alfredo sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For that extra luscious, velvety finish.
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese: Brings that signature sharp, salty flavor that defines Alfredo sauce.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A subtle blend of herbs that adds warmth and depth.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Juicy and tender, the star protein that makes this bake hearty.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates a beautifully melted, golden crust on top.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright pop of color and flavor.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Dish and Pasta
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and greasing a 9 by 13-inch baking dish. Cooking the pasta just until it’s al dente is important—you want it tender but still with a little bite so it doesn’t turn mushy after baking. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside.
Step 2: Craft the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. The moment it becomes fragrant, that savory aroma will surely excite you. Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute to make a roux—the key for a silky thick sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken, usually around 4 to 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Now, let the magic happen by adding the grated Parmesan cheese along with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything until the cheese melts completely, turning the sauce into a rich, creamy delight that’s bursting with flavor. This step is where your Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe really takes shape.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Mix the cooked chicken and pasta into the sauce, gently folding everything together until the pasta and chicken are fully coated. Pour this irresistible combination into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly so every bite will have the perfect balance.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling. This bubbly, golden crust is exactly what makes this Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe such a treat. After baking, let it rest for 5 minutes—this helps everything set and makes serving a breeze.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley brightens the dish beautifully while bringing in a subtle herbal freshness. If you like a bit of an extra touch, a light dusting of additional Parmesan cheese right before serving is fantastic too.
Side Dishes
Because this casserole is rich and creamy, pairing it with something crisp and refreshing is ideal. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts create a balanced plate for your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
To make the presentation extra special, serve individual portions in small ramekins or bake the casserole in a colorful ceramic dish. You can also add some steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms on top before the cheese to add both color and extra flavor layers—giving your Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe your personalized twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often meld beautifully overnight, making your next meal just as enjoyable, if not better.
Freezing
This Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or place the whole dish in an oven-safe container at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until heated through, about 20 minutes. Adding a splash of milk before reheating helps restore the creaminess without drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or rotini are perfect because they hold sauce well, you can swap in other shapes like fusilli or rigatoni without losing any of the dish’s charm.
Is it okay to use pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie chicken?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves prep time and adds extra flavor. Just shred or dice it before mixing it into the sauce.
Can I add vegetables to this Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe?
Definitely! Steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or even fresh spinach are wonderful additions that add a pop of color and nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
What kind of cheese works best for the topping?
Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully and provides that classic golden, bubbly crust. You can also mix in some provolone or fontina for a more complex cheesiness if you like.
How can I make the sauce thicker if needed?
If your sauce seems too runny, let it simmer a bit longer while stirring constantly, or add a tiny bit more flour when making the roux for a thicker texture.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is the kind of comforting, cheesy dish that quickly becomes a household favorite. From the creamy sauce to the golden topping, it’s an easy but impressive meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Chicken Alfredo Bake is a creamy, comforting casserole that combines tender cooked chicken, pasta, and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfectly baked to a golden finish, this easy Italian-American dish is ideal for family dinners or meal prepping.
Ingredients
Pasta & Protein
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Topping & Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne or rotini pasta until just al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, as it will finish cooking during the bake.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant to infuse the butter. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Combine Dairy: Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add Flavor: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
- Combine with Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta into the sauce. Stir well to evenly coat the pasta and chicken with the Alfredo sauce.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and evenly scatter shredded mozzarella cheese over the top to create a melty, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the mozzarella is melted and golden brown.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the bake rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh, attractive finish before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking the chicken yourself.
- Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms to increase the vegetable content and enhance nutrition.
- Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat dairy products and less cheese.
