If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s equal parts creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, this Chicken Alfredo Bake will absolutely steal the show on any dinner table. With tender pieces of chicken and perfectly cooked pasta folded into a silky Alfredo sauce, then topped with gooey mozzarella and bubbly baked golden, every forkful offers pure delight. Whether you’re feeding family, impressing company, or simply craving something hearty on a chilly night, Chicken Alfredo Bake is a no-fuss solution that tastes like you spent all day cooking!

Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s nothing overly fancy here—just a handful of simple, can’t-skip ingredients that guarantee a luscious, cheesy pasta casserole. Each component brings something essential, whether it’s flavor, creaminess, or that irresistible golden topping.

Cooked chicken breast (3 cups, shredded or cubed): Rotisserie chicken works great for this—a guaranteed shortcut to juicy, tender bites in every serving.
Penne or rigatoni pasta (12 ounces): These shapes hold sauce like champions and stand up beautifully to baking.
Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness as the base of your Alfredo sauce.
Minced garlic (3 cloves): Essential for that signature savory aroma and depth of flavor.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken your creamy sauce to just the right texture.
Heavy cream (2 cups): The star of the sauce, delivering unbeatable silkiness and bite after bite of decadence.
Whole milk (1 cup): Lightens the sauce ever-so-slightly without losing any creaminess.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1 1/2 cups): Brings salty, nutty undertones that make Alfredo sauce truly great.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups, divided): Melts beautifully for a cheesy interior and a golden top.
Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): A pinch of herbs brings out warmth and complexity.
Ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a little kick to balance the richness.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
Chopped parsley (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and a hint of brightness at the end.

How to Make Chicken Alfredo Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a generous pot of salted water to a boil and add the penne or rigatoni. Cook it just until al dente—you want it tender but with a little bite, since it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain well and set aside while you whip up the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Grab a large skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, and let it sizzle for about a minute—your kitchen will smell incredible! Sprinkle in the flour and stir for another minute to create a creamy roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, stirring until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle in the Parmesan, along with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Keep stirring until everything is melted and the sauce coats the back of your spoon. This is your liquid gold—rich Alfredo bliss!

Step 4: Mix Chicken, Pasta, and Alfredo Sauce

In a big mixing bowl, comb your cooked pasta with the shredded or cubed chicken. Pour the Alfredo sauce right over top, and stir gently until everything is coated evenly—every piece should be soaking up that glorious sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella evenly over the top for that restaurant-worthy cheesy crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and golden on top. Let it rest for five minutes before digging in—this helps everything set just right.

How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Bake

Garnishes

A scattering of chopped fresh parsley does more than just add color—it brings a springy brightness that lifts every bite. If you’re feeling extra, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a little cracked black pepper on top is always welcome, too.

Side Dishes

This cozy Chicken Alfredo Bake begs for something crisp and fresh on the side. Think a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, a pile of steamed broccoli, or classic garlic bread for mopping up the creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables pair perfectly as well if you want to keep things a little lighter.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this for guests, consider assembling the Chicken Alfredo Bake in individual ramekins for a fun, personalized twist. For a family-style vibe, bring the baking dish right to the table and let everyone dig in. You could even top with sautéed mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes to give it a more vibrant, upscale look!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Alfredo Bake stores beautifully in the fridge. Once cooled, cover tightly or transfer to airtight containers. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to three days, making it perfect for quick lunches or weeknight dinners later on.

Freezing

If you want to save some for another time, you’re in luck—this dish freezes very well! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil (or use a freezer-safe container). For best texture, freeze before baking and add a few extra minutes to the bake time straight from the freezer.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven, covered with foil to prevent drying out, until thoroughly hot (about 20 minutes). Individual portions can go in the microwave, but add a splash of milk or cream to help restore that creamy texture before heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While penne and rigatoni work best for holding the sauce, you can swap in ziti, fusilli, or even farfalle if you have them on hand. Just stick to a sturdy pasta shape for best results.

Is it possible to make Chicken Alfredo Bake gluten free?

Definitely! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and substitute a gluten-free flour blend in the sauce. The flavors will stay just as creamy and comforting.

How do I add vegetables without making it watery?

Great question! Lightly steam or sauté veggies like broccoli or spinach before folding them into the pasta mixture, and be sure to pat away extra moisture. This way, you add color and nutrition without diluting the silky sauce.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce lighter?

For a lighter touch, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of whole milk and a touch of cream. The sauce will be a bit less rich, but still satisfyingly creamy.

What proteins work instead of chicken?

The Chicken Alfredo Bake is wonderfully flexible—try cooked shrimp, turkey, or even roasted vegetables instead of chicken. Anything hearty and already cooked will blend beautifully into this recipe.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a bubbling, cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bake on the table to bring everyone together. If you give it a try, get ready for smiles all around—and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your kitchen too!

Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 22 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in this comforting Chicken Alfredo Bake, a creamy pasta casserole that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner. Tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious Alfredo sauce, all baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Alfredo Bake:

3 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
12 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in flour to form a roux. Slowly whisk in cream and milk until thickened. Add Parmesan, 1 cup mozzarella, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy.
Combine and Bake: In a bowl, mix pasta, chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden. Let rest before serving. Garnish with parsley.