Chicken Alfredo Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all baked to golden perfection. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and a favorite among families looking for a hearty and satisfying meal. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to make this delicious Chicken Alfredo Bake step by step, along with tips, variations, and even keto-friendly and low-carb options for those watching their carb intake.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces cavatappi or penne pasta
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
- 2 1/2 cups diced cooked chicken breast or chicken thighs
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the Cheese: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, a little at a time, until it melts and the sauce is smooth. Add the cubed cream cheese and continue stirring until fully incorporated and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, covering the entire surface.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the Chicken Alfredo Bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the bake, such as broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes, for added flavor and nutrition.
- Protein Options: Substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp or cooked sausage for a different twist on this classic dish.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Creamy Alfredo Sauce: For an even creamier Alfredo sauce, add a splash of chicken broth or white wine while cooking.
Keto Versions and Low-Carb Options:
- Zucchini Noodles: Replace the pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a low-carb alternative.
- Cauliflower Rice: Swap the pasta for cooked cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option.
- Almond Flour: Use almond flour as a thickener for the Alfredo sauce instead of flour to reduce the carb content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making it from scratch? Yes, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce if you’re short on time. Just make sure to choose a high-quality sauce for the best flavor.
- Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Bake? Yes, you can freeze the assembled unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
- Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch? Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option and adds delicious flavor to the dish. Simply shred the chicken and use it as directed in the recipe.
Chicken Alfredo Bake is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests. With its creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with different variations, this dish is always a winner. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of indulgence with this delicious Chicken Alfredo Bake!
