Baked Alfredo Chicken Pasta: Creamy, Cheesy Comfort in Every Bite

When it comes to hearty, comforting dishes that combine creamy textures and savory flavors, nothing quite hits the spot like a rich, cheesy Baked Alfredo Chicken Pasta. This easy-to-make, satisfying meal features tender pasta, flavorful shredded chicken, and a luscious Alfredo sauce that’s baked to perfection with a melty cheese topping. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week ahead, or entertaining guests, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a family-friendly dish that’s as delicious as it is filling. The combination of mozzarella, Parmesan, and shredded chicken ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor, while the Alfredo sauce makes it indulgent and creamy. Topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and freshness, this baked pasta dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser.

Let’s dive into the recipe and explore how to make this creamy, cheesy Baked Alfredo Chicken Pasta!

Ingredients Breakdown

Before you get started, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this Baked Alfredo Chicken Pasta so rich and flavorful:

1. 12 oz Pasta (Penne or Rotini)

Pasta is the backbone of this dish. Penne or rotini are both excellent choices due to their ability to hold sauce in their grooves, making every bite satisfying. If you prefer a different pasta shape, feel free to substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or any pasta you have on hand. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold up during the baking process.

2. 2 Cups Cooked Shredded Chicken

Shredded chicken adds protein and texture to the dish. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breasts, or poached chicken. Shredding the chicken allows it to blend seamlessly into the pasta and sauce, ensuring that each bite has a delicious mix of chicken and pasta.

3. 2 Cups Alfredo Sauce (Homemade or Store-Bought)

The creamy Alfredo sauce is what makes this dish indulgent and comforting. You can opt for a store-bought sauce for convenience, or you can make your own from scratch using heavy cream, butter, garlic, and Parmesan. The Alfredo sauce creates a smooth, velvety coating that brings everything together.

4. 1 ½ Cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella cheese is the key to achieving that gooey, melted, cheesy top. Its mild flavor and excellent melting qualities make it perfect for this baked pasta dish. If you prefer a more intense cheese flavor, you can substitute with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.

5. ½ Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, sharp flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the Alfredo sauce. It also helps to give the dish a golden, crisp topping when baked. Freshly grated Parmesan is always the best choice for optimal flavor.

6. 2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Chopped)

Fresh parsley is used to garnish the dish and add a burst of color and freshness. It also provides a slight herbaceous note that balances the richness of the Alfredo sauce. If you don’t have parsley on hand, you can substitute with basil or even fresh thyme for a different flavor profile.

7. 1 Tablespoon Butter (For Greasing the Dish)

Butter is used to grease the baking dish, ensuring that the pasta doesn’t stick during the baking process. It also adds a slight buttery flavor to the dish. You can substitute with cooking spray if you prefer, but butter adds a richer taste.

Step-by-Step Directions

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s walk through how to prepare this mouthwatering Baked Alfredo Chicken Pasta.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Grease the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter. This will prevent the pasta from sticking and give the dish a little extra richness. Use a pastry brush or a paper towel to spread the butter evenly across the bottom and sides of the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Next, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Whether you’re using penne, rotini, or another shape, cook the pasta until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside for now. Make sure not to overcook the pasta since it will continue cooking in the oven during the baking process.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken, and 2 cups of Alfredo sauce. Stir gently to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. The chicken will blend into the pasta, creating a deliciously creamy and hearty mixture. If you like a little more sauce, feel free to add extra Alfredo sauce.

Step 4: Pour into the Baking Dish

Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure the mixture is well-distributed.

Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. The cheese will melt and bubble during baking, creating a golden and bubbly crust that is the hallmark of any baked pasta dish.

Step 6: Bake the Dish

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. You may want to check the dish around 20 minutes to ensure it doesn’t overcook. If the cheese isn’t golden enough yet, bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese is melted and golden, remove the dish from the oven. Let it cool for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to set a bit. Then, sprinkle the dish with 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Slice the Baked Alfredo Chicken Pasta into portions and serve hot. This dish is perfect on its own, or you can pair it with a side of garlic bread, a Caesar salad, or steamed vegetables for a more complete meal.

Chef’s Tips for the Best Baked Alfredo Chicken Pasta

1. Use Fresh Mozzarella: For the best texture and melt, try using freshly shredded mozzarella. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the cheese’s meltability.
2. Make Your Own Alfredo Sauce: While store-bought Alfredo sauce is convenient, homemade sauce adds richness and depth of flavor. You can make a simple Alfredo sauce by melting butter in a pan, adding minced garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Add Veggies: For a more balanced dish, try adding some vegetables. Spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms would all be great additions to this pasta bake.
4. Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the Alfredo sauce for a warm, subtle depth of flavor. It’s a classic addition to creamy pasta dishes!
5. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will bake in the oven, cook it just to al dente. Overcooking it before baking can result in mushy pasta.
6. Make It Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any short pasta shape, like rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. The key is to use a pasta that can hold the sauce and chicken well. Just make sure to cook it al dente before baking.

2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe. Just shred the chicken and add it to the pasta mixture—it’s flavorful and easy to use.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze this pasta dish. Simply assemble it, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

4. Can I make the Alfredo sauce from scratch?

Yes! To make your own Alfredo sauce, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a pan, add 2 cloves of minced garlic, then stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

5. Can I use a dairy-free Alfredo sauce?

Yes, you can use a dairy-free Alfredo sauce made from coconut milk, almond milk, or any other plant-based milk. Just make sure to check the consistency and flavor as you go.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the

sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. It adds a nice kick without overwhelming the dish.

7. How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven for the best texture.

8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add sautéed spinach, broccoli, or roasted mushrooms to the pasta mixture for added flavor and texture.

9. Can I make this dish in a smaller or larger baking dish?

Yes, you can adjust the size of the baking dish depending on how many servings you need. Just make sure the pasta mixture is spread evenly, and adjust the cooking time if necessary.

Conclusion

This Baked Alfredo Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, with tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s baked to perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing for a week of easy meals, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. It’s rich, indulgent, and perfectly cheesy, with just the right amount of flavor from the Parmesan, mozzarella, and fresh parsley.

Make it your own by adding veggies or customizing the cheese, and enjoy it with your favorite sides for a complete meal. No matter how you serve it, this baked pasta dish will become a go-to recipe for cozy nights in and special occasions alike.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite of this delicious dish!

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