If you are craving a rich, comforting, and crowd-pleasing dinner, the Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is your new best friend. This creamy, cheesy pasta bake combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne, and a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce baked to bubbly perfection. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making it a perfect meal for family dinners, special occasions, or just whenever you want to spoil yourself with some seriously good comfort food. Let me walk you through how to master this delightful dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe lies in its wonderfully simple ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the tender chicken to the creamy sauce and the golden cheesy topping that makes every forkful irresistible.
- 12 oz penne pasta: Cooking it al dente ensures the perfect bite that holds up well in the bake.
- 3 cups cooked and diced chicken: Adds heartiness and protein, making it a complete meal.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for the Alfredo sauce without overpowering other flavors.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and a subtle kick of flavor.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce into a smooth, velvety texture.
- 2 ½ cups half & half: Keeps the sauce creamy yet light enough for a luscious finish.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings nutty, savory notes that are essential to any Alfredo sauce.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Half adds gooey richness to the sauce, while the rest forms a bubbling, golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the delicate flavors perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth that balances the creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons Italian parsley (chopped): A fresh, herbal garnish that brightens the entire dish visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish—this ensures your delicious bake won’t stick and will brown perfectly. Cook the penne pasta until it is just al dente, as overcooked pasta can become mushy after baking. Drain well and set aside while you make your creamy Alfredo sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Make a Roux
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Let it sauté for about a minute until it releases a fragrant aroma that instantly awakens your kitchen. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for two minutes. This step is crucial to cook out the raw flour taste and create the silky base that thickens your sauce wonderfully.
Step 3: Create the Velvety Sauce
Slowly pour in the half & half while whisking to combine it seamlessly with the buttery roux. Keep stirring as it simmers for 3–5 minutes until you notice the sauce thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon—a sign it’s ready to be cheesy and luxurious.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Season
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan and half of the shredded mozzarella. Watch those cheeses melt into the sauce, turning it perfectly smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to enhance all those beautiful flavors before removing the saucepan from the heat.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Now, fold the cooked pasta and diced chicken into the Alfredo sauce, ensuring every piece is generously coated. This step guarantees each bite will be bursting with that signature creamy chicken Alfredo flavor you love so much.
Step 6: Assemble and Top the Bake
Transfer this luscious mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top—this will melt into a golden, bubbly crust that’s simply irresistible once baked.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the dish to heat through thoroughly. Remove the foil and continue to bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown, offering a wonderful contrast to the creamy inside.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Take your masterpiece out of the oven and sprinkle it with freshly chopped Italian parsley. This adds a pop of freshness and color that elevates this indulgent dish from comforting to elegant in a snap. Serve immediately and get ready for compliments!
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh Italian parsley or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can bring a lively brightness and a gentle heat to this rich casserole. A few extra shavings of Parmesan on top right before serving also add a touch of sophistication and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables brings balance and freshness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce—pure bliss!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Chicken Alfredo Bake in individual ramekins or small casseroles for a charming, restaurant-style touch. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens to impress your guests visually. This bake also works wonderfully as a potluck dish—just bake it in a disposable pan for easy transport.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully overnight, making the next-day meal just as satisfying.
Freezing
This Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Prepare and assemble the dish but don’t bake it yet; cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake from frozen (adding extra cooking time) for a convenient and delicious meal anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until warmed through to keep the creamy texture. You can also microwave single portions, but be careful not to overheat as the sauce may separate slightly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even rotini. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try using dairy-free butter, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese alternatives, but keep in mind the texture and flavor will be different from the traditional creamy Alfredo. Look for thickened plant milks to maintain sauce consistency.
Can I prepare the Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it a day before and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when you are ready to enjoy, which helps flavors develop even more.
What type of chicken works best? Can I use leftover chicken?
Cooked, diced chicken breast or thigh meat works perfectly here. Leftover roasted or grilled chicken is a great way to save time and add extra flavor without compromising the dish.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper along with the salt and black pepper for a bit of heat. You could also top with spicy Italian sausage instead of plain chicken for a fiery twist.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is an absolute winner for anyone who loves creamy, cheesy, and comforting meals that feel both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing friends, it’s easy to make, packs incredible flavor, and offers a cozy hug on a plate. Give it a try and watch it become your go-to weeknight favorite or special occasion staple—you truly can’t go wrong!
Print
Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Chicken Alfredo Bake is a creamy, cheesy casserole combining tender penne pasta, savory chicken, and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce topped with bubbly mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this dish is baked to golden perfection and garnished with fresh Italian parsley for a vibrant finish.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz penne pasta (cooked al dente according to package directions)
- 3 cups cooked and diced chicken
Alfredo Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups half & half
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for the sauce)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Topping and Garnish
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons Italian parsley (chopped for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook the penne pasta to al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Make roux with garlic: Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for one minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for about two minutes to form a smooth paste (roux).
- Add half & half: Gradually pour in the half & half while whisking continuously to combine with the roux. Stir and cook for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add cheeses and season: Lower the heat, add grated Parmesan cheese and ½ cup shredded mozzarella. Stir until cheeses melt into a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper, then remove from heat.
- Combine pasta and chicken with sauce: Mix the cooked pasta and diced chicken into the Alfredo sauce in the saucepan or a large bowl until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer and top: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella over the top.
- Bake covered and uncovered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped Italian parsley, and serve hot for a delicious casserole meal.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken from leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute half & half with whole milk and reduce mozzarella cheese amount.
- To make ahead, assemble the dish but do not bake; cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to avoid over-softening during baking.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better than pre-grated options.
