If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, then Chicken Alfredo Bake is a must-try recipe for you. This comforting and satisfying casserole combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce, all baked to perfection. With its delightful flavors and simple preparation, Chicken Alfredo Bake is a family favorite that will please even the pickiest eaters. In this blog post, we’ll share a delicious recipe for Chicken Alfredo Bake, complete with a list of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some helpful tips to ensure your bake turns out irresistibly creamy and flavorful. Get ready to indulge in this cheesy delight that will leave everyone craving for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked according to package instructions
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add the shredded chicken, cooked penne pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the Alfredo sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, covering the entire surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove the Chicken Alfredo Bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness and flavor.
- Serve the Chicken Alfredo Bake hot, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Tips for a Perfect Chicken Alfredo Bake:
- Cook the chicken properly: Make sure the chicken breasts are fully cooked before shredding. You can boil, bake, or grill them according to your preference. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices for added flavor.
- Cook the pasta al dente: It’s important to cook the pasta just until it’s tender with a slight bite, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and affect the texture of the bake.
- Customize with additional ingredients: Feel free to add extra ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture of your Chicken Alfredo Bake. Sautéed mushrooms, cooked bacon, or steamed broccoli make great additions.
- Reheating leftovers: To reheat any leftover Chicken Alfredo Bake, cover it with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
By following these tips and using the provided recipe, you’ll create a mouthwater