This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a warm and comforting dish that’s super cheesy and delicious. It combines pasta, tender chicken, and a rich sauce, all baked to perfection!
I love making this when I need something easy for dinner. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and the leftovers (if there are any) taste just as good the next day! Who doesn’t love cheesy pasta? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I use rotini because its shape holds the sauce really well, but any short pasta like penne or fusilli works too! You can even use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to. If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken can be a great shortcut!
Heavy Cream: This adds that rich creaminess, but if you’re looking to cut calories, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut cream for a different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor! If you’re out, Pecorino Romano makes a nice substitute. Avoid the powdered stuff; it just doesn’t compare!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too—use about half the amount.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken to perfection keeps it juicy and tender. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high before adding the chicken. This helps it sear properly.
- Cut the chicken into even, bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Cook until the chicken is no longer pink inside, about 6-8 minutes. If it’s browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking before mixing it in with the sauce and pasta. This helps retain its juices.
With these insights, you’re ready to create a delicious Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake! Enjoy!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Chicken:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy and cheesy bake will take around 15 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to cook. Altogether, you’ll be digging into your delicious Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake in just about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when it’s time to bake your pasta dish.
2. Boil the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta as per the package instructions until it’s al dente (still firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium, and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it smells amazing. Then, pour in the heavy cream, add the Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.
5. Add Cheese and Season:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and keep stirring until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Taste it and season with salt and pepper to your liking!
6. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the browned chicken, and the creamy Alfredo sauce. Make sure everything is evenly coated and deliciously mixed!
7. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. For the final touch, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
8. Bake It Up:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. Yum!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor! Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy bite of your creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake!
I hope you enjoy this wonderful dish as much as I do! It’s comfort food at its best! 😊
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini works great for holding the sauce, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle will also do nicely. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente for the best texture!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. However, keep in mind that the sauce will be less creamy. You can also use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it up gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the chicken for a couple of minutes before mixing everything together.
