Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Chicken Alfredo takes the classic pasta dish to a whole new level with the addition of juicy chicken and a golden, cheesy crust on top. The creamy Alfredo sauce coats the pasta, making every bite rich and flavorful. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners, or even a special occasion. Whether you’re a fan of pasta or just love creamy dishes, this one is sure to impress.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Chicken:

Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

For the Alfredo Sauce:

Prepare the Pasta:
- While the chicken is cooking, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil or butter if needed. Sauté the minced garlic over medium heat for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and nutmeg. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Assemble and Bake:

Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce:
- In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the sauce.
Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta mixture. This will create a delicious, golden, cheesy crust once baked.
Bake the Dish:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

To Serve:

Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the Baked Chicken Alfredo from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (for baking)
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes into the dish for added flavor and nutrition.
Use Different Cheese: Try different cheeses like provolone, gouda, or cheddar for a unique twist on the flavor.
Spicy Chicken Alfredo: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder to the Alfredo sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Baked Chicken Alfredo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape you choose.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything ahead of time and refrigerate the assembled dish. When you’re ready to serve, bake it in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.

3. Can I make this recipe without chicken?

Yes, you can omit the chicken for a vegetarian version. You can also replace the chicken with other proteins like shrimp or tofu.

4. How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten up the dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or try a lower-fat cheese. You can also swap some of the pasta for vegetables, like cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

5. Can I freeze Baked Chicken Alfredo?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

6. Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to assemble, reheat the sauce and combine with the cooked pasta and chicken.

7. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add more cheese or cook it for a few extra minutes until it reduces to your desired consistency.

8. Can I use a store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce for convenience. However, making it from scratch adds more flavor and richness to the dish.

9. Can I add more cheese on top?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra cheese on top for a cheesier, golden crust.

10. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Alfredo sauce ingredients are gluten-free for a delicious gluten-free version.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s easy to make, customizable, and a family favorite that’s perfect for dinner or a special gathering. Once you try it, it’ll quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

Baked Chicken Alfredo