Pasta lovers, rejoice! This recipe for Creamy Baked Chicken Alfredo Penne is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners with family or an impressive dish for entertaining guests. Combining tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and gooey layers of melted cheese, it’s the kind of meal that fills your home with warmth and your heart with happiness.
Pasta bakes have been a beloved staple for decades because they’re versatile, hearty, and can feed a crowd with ease. This version takes the classic Alfredo pasta to the next level by adding oven-baked goodness and a cheesy crust that’s impossible to resist. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory, making it a timeless recipe that you’ll want to return to again and again.
Let’s dive into the details of crafting this indulgent yet simple dish. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is approachable and guarantees delicious results every time.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
What makes this dish stand out is its simplicity paired with bold, satisfying flavors. Alfredo sauce has a rich history, dating back to early 20th-century Italy, but this version adapts it for modern home kitchens. By adding chicken, penne pasta, and two types of cheese, the dish becomes a hearty, all-in-one meal that’s as practical as it is delicious.
This baked pasta recipe is timeless because it brings together classic ingredients in a way that’s both comforting and versatile. It works as a weekday dinner, a potluck dish, or even a centerpiece for a casual dinner party. Plus, who can say no to bubbling, golden cheese straight out of the oven?
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Pasta:
- 3 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- 1 (8-ounce) package penne pasta
For the Sauce and Flavoring:
- ½ (16-ounce) jar Alfredo sauce
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
For the Cheese Layers:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Preparation Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 500 kcal
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
- Drain the pasta, rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process, and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the chicken breasts for 4–5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet, allow it to rest for 5 minutes, and then slice into bite-sized pieces.
3. Prepare the Sauce Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce, milk, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
4. Assemble the Pasta Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add the cooked penne pasta and sliced chicken to the baking dish. Pour the Alfredo sauce mixture over the top, tossing gently to coat the pasta and chicken evenly.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta mixture, followed by the shredded Cheddar cheese.
5. Bake the Dish
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese on top, and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Pasta Choice: While penne works perfectly for this recipe, you can substitute it with rigatoni, ziti, or any short pasta shape that holds sauce well.
- Customize the Protein: You can swap the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even a plant-based alternative to make this dish your own.
- Homemade Alfredo: If you prefer, you can make your own Alfredo sauce by whisking together heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese over low heat until smooth.
- Extra Veggies: Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted bell peppers to boost the nutritional value and add more color to the dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This pasta bake freezes well! Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes. Add a splash of milk to keep the pasta creamy.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
- Sodium: 820 mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make this pasta bake in advance?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: Pair this pasta bake with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Creamy Baked Chicken Alfredo Penne is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of the joy that comes from sharing good food with loved ones. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese make it an instant crowd-pleaser. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.
The bubbling layers of cheese and perfectly baked pasta are sure to become a family favorite. And with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and again. So grab your apron, preheat the oven, and get ready to create a dish that’s destined to be a hit at your table.
Enjoy the magic of baked pasta, one creamy, cheesy bite at a time! 🍴