Comfort food, in its truest sense, brings warmth and satisfaction to the soul. There are few dishes as universally loved and comforting as pasta with creamy sauce. One of the most beloved recipes is the Creamy Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake, a dish that takes the classic Alfredo pasta to a whole new level of indulgence. Rich, creamy, and oh-so-cheesy, this recipe combines penne pasta with a velvety Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and layers of melted cheese that will melt your heart with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a family meal, or craving a dish that will satisfy your comfort food needs, this recipe will not disappoint.

In this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake, the pasta is enveloped in a luscious mixture of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, creating a decadent sauce that pairs perfectly with the pasta. The addition of chicken fillet adds a savory, protein-packed element, while the breading gives it an irresistible crunch. Topped with even more melted mozzarella cheese and fresh parsley, this dish is the ultimate comfort meal that promises to please everyone at the table.

If you’re looking to elevate your pasta game and treat your loved ones to something rich, filling, and satisfying, this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake is a must-try. The balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory elements makes it a timeless recipe that has stood the test of time—and it’s sure to stay a family favorite for generations to come.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 400g penne pasta
• 400g white sauce (béchamel or Alfredo)
• 300g cream cheese
• 250g mozzarella cheese, grated
• 400ml fresh cream
• 400ml chicken broth
• 100g Parmesan cheese, grated
• 80g unsalted butter
• 4 teaspoons garlic paste
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 pinch black pepper
• 1 pinch dried parsley

For the Topping:

• 200g mozzarella cheese, grated
• 1 breaded fried chicken fillet (cooked and cut into strips)
• Fresh parsley, to taste

Steps to Make Creamy Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake

1. Cook the Pasta
   Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically for around 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce
   In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the garlic paste and sauté for about 1–2 minutes, until fragrant. Next, pour in the fresh cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine.
   Add the cream cheese and stir until it completely melts into the sauce, creating a smooth base. Slowly mix in the white sauce (béchamel or Alfredo) to create a rich and creamy texture.
   Season with salt, black pepper, and dried parsley, adjusting to taste. Add the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese, and continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is silky smooth.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
   Once your sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta into the saucepan. Toss the pasta in the sauce, making sure it is thoroughly coated with the creamy mixture. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove the pan from heat.
4. Assemble the Bake
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   Transfer the creamy pasta mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top the pasta with grated mozzarella cheese and the breaded fried chicken fillet, cut into strips, placing them on top of the pasta.
5. Bake the Pasta
   Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. If you prefer a crispier topping, you can turn on the broiler for the last few minutes of baking.
6. Garnish and Serve
   Once the pasta is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Prep Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes (including baking)
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves approximately 4–6 people, depending on portion size.

Why This Recipe Is Timeless

The beauty of Creamy Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake lies in its simplicity, yet it feels indulgent and luxurious. It combines familiar ingredients that are staples in many kitchens—pasta, chicken, cream, and cheese—but when brought together, the result is a comforting, creamy, cheesy masterpiece that delights the senses.

This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, or any occasion where you want to serve something that feels both comforting and impressive. The breaded fried chicken adds a crispy, savory element to the dish, contrasting beautifully with the creamy pasta, while the melted mozzarella and Parmesan create a gooey, cheesy topping that everyone loves.

Its versatility is another reason why it remains timeless. You can adjust the type of pasta, cheese, or even switch out the chicken for other proteins, like shrimp or vegetables, making it customizable to your taste preferences. The fact that you can bake it all in one dish makes cleanup easy, while the rich, creamy sauce provides a delicious base that pairs perfectly with almost anything.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to impress guests, this dish has all the components that make for a memorable meal. It is a recipe that brings people together, whether it’s served on a casual weekday or a special occasion.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 650 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Fat: 40 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 600 mg

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe without chicken?
Yes! You can easily omit the chicken or replace it with vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a vegetarian version of this dish.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can swap penne for any other pasta shape you prefer, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if using a different shape.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce in advance, and store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply assemble the dish, top with cheese, and bake.

4. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Once baked, let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container. To reheat, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for about 45 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake

1. Use full-fat dairy: For a richer, creamier sauce, use full-fat cream, butter, and cheese. It makes a significant difference in both texture and flavor.
2. Make your own white sauce: If you prefer, you can make your own béchamel or Alfredo sauce instead of buying it pre-made. This adds a homemade touch and allows you to control the flavor and consistency.
3. Customize the chicken: If you don’t want to fry the chicken, you can simply grill or bake it. Alternatively, use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
4. Add vegetables: For extra nutrition and flavor, try adding sautéed spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta before baking. This will add color, texture, and a burst of flavor.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, allow the pasta bake to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: When ready to serve, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave.

Conclusion

There’s something inherently satisfying about a warm, creamy, cheesy pasta dish. Creamy Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake is the epitome of comfort food, offering a rich and indulgent meal that everyone will love. From its creamy Alfredo sauce to the crispy chicken and gooey melted cheese, this dish has all the elements of a perfect, crowd-pleasing dinner. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and versatile enough to suit different dietary preferences and tastes.

Whether you’re cooking for a family weeknight dinner or hosting a special occasion, this recipe will become a go-to in your meal rotation. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the luxurious texture and flavor, ensures that Creamy Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake will be a timeless favorite in your kitchen.