Introduction:
The name “comfort food” often brings to mind dishes that are not only satisfying but also easy to prepare and loved by everyone. Baked Chicken Alfredo fits this description perfectly. With its creamy sauce, tender pasta, and gooey, melted cheese, it offers a satisfying combination of flavors that warms the heart and fills the stomach. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a weeknight treat, or a special occasion, Baked Chicken Alfredo is always a hit.
What makes this dish even better is its versatility. You can use leftover chicken, swap out the pasta shape for your favorite, or even add extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli to the mix. The possibilities are endless, but the result is always the same: a deliciously creamy and cheesy meal everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
For the best results, you’ll want to use high-quality ingredients. Here’s a complete list of what you’ll need:
- 12 ounces penne pasta – This is the pasta shape traditionally used for Alfredo bakes, but feel free to substitute with any pasta you prefer, such as rigatoni or ziti.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced – Grilled, rotisserie, or leftover chicken works perfectly in this dish.
- 2 cups heavy cream – For that rich, velvety texture that makes Alfredo sauce so creamy.
- 1 cup whole milk – Adds a smoother texture to the sauce.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated is ideal for the best flavor and smooth texture.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided – Mozzarella cheese helps bind the ingredients together and creates a deliciously gooey, cheesy top layer.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – The base for making the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – To thicken the sauce and create a smooth consistency.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic adds an aromatic depth to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings all the flavors together.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – For seasoning the sauce and pasta, enhancing the overall flavor.
Directions and Preparation Method
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these easy steps for a perfect Baked Chicken Alfredo every time.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
Next, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. This step is essential because it infuses the butter with a lovely garlic flavor.
Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of flour over the butter and garlic mixture, whisking continuously for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. The roux is what helps thicken the sauce and create a creamy texture.
Once the roux is ready, gradually pour in the 2 cups of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. Continue to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it starts to thicken, about 5 minutes. This is when the magic happens – the sauce transforms into a smooth, rich, creamy base for your pasta.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes creamy. At this point, you can also add the 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta and diced chicken to the sauce. Stir gently to coat everything evenly with the creamy Alfredo sauce. The chicken will soak up the sauce, adding flavor and richness to the dish.
Step 5: Assemble the Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
Transfer half of the pasta and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup) over the pasta. Layer the remaining pasta mixture on top and finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake and Broil
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden top, you can switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Be sure to keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the Baked Chicken Alfredo is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This allows the sauce to settle and makes serving easier. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for an added burst of color and freshness.
Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish with your family and friends!
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish? Yes, absolutely! While penne is traditionally used, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or even fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
2. Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken? Yes, rotisserie chicken works great in this dish. Simply shred or dice the chicken before adding it to the sauce. It’s an easy way to save time if you’re in a rush!
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce mixture the day before and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake it, just follow the assembly and baking instructions. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.
4. Can I freeze Baked Chicken Alfredo? You can freeze the unbaked version of this dish. After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.
5. Can I add vegetables to this recipe? Yes, you can easily add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms to this dish. Simply sauté the vegetables before adding them to the pasta and sauce for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion:
Baked Chicken Alfredo is one of those dishes that never disappoints. It’s comforting, creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a rich Alfredo sauce makes this recipe a family favorite. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with different pasta shapes, vegetables, or proteins to suit your taste.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this dish will never go out of style. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up this delicious meal in under an hour. So next time you’re looking for a comforting dinner, give this Baked Chicken Alfredo a try. It’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your meal rotation.