Name: Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 16 ounces pasta ((uncooked, I used elbow macaroni)); 3 tablespoons butter ((unsalted)); 1 chicken breast ((cut into small pieces)); 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup heavy cream; ¾ cup parmesan cheese ((grated)); 1 cup mozzarella cheese ((shredded)); salt and pepper (to taste); parsley ((for garnish))

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When I think about comfort food, the first dish that pops to my mind is the Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake. It’s one of those recipes that brings back fond memories of family dinners, where laughter filled the air and the aroma of creamy sauce wafted through the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly winter evening, and I wanted something warm and satisfying. As the pasta baked, the cheese melted into gooey perfection, creating a tempting pull that made everyone eager to dig in. This hearty meal is not just easy to prepare; it’s also a crowd-pleaser that can turn any ordinary weekday dinner into a delightful feast.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
530 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
28 g

Tools Used:
12-inch Cast Iron Skillet

What Makes This Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Special

There are so many reasons why the Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake stands out.

1. Unmatched Creaminess

This dish features a rich and creamy sauce made from heavy cream and parmesan cheese, which provides a luxurious mouthfeel. It’s the kind of creaminess that makes your taste buds dance!

2. Versatile Ingredients

The ingredients are not only comforting but also versatile. You can throw in different vegetables or even swap out the chicken for another protein, making it easy to customize based on your family’s preferences.

3. Perfect for Meal Prep

What I love about this recipe is that it’s perfect for meal prepping. You can make a larger batch, store it in the fridge, and have delicious leftovers ready for the week. Just reheat and enjoy!

4. Family-Friendly

Even the pickiest eaters in my family can’t resist the allure of a bubbling casserole topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s not just a meal; it’s a bonding experience as everyone gathers around the table, excited to share a plate of comfort together.

5. Quick and Easy

With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, the Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake can be whipped up in no time. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Shopping List for Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

Every great dish starts with quality ingredients, and for the Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake, simplicity is key. The combination of pasta, chicken, and creamy sauces creates a harmonious blend that’s both satisfying and delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:

16 ounces pasta (uncooked, I used elbow macaroni)
3 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
1 chicken breast (cut into small pieces)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup parmesan cheese (grated)
1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Salt and pepper to taste
Parsley (for garnish)

Step by Step Guide for Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

Let’s get cooking! Making the Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a delightful journey. You’ll find each step straightforward and rewarding as you watch the ingredients come together into a cheesy, comforting dish. Follow along closely, and soon you’ll have a bubbling pasta bake just waiting to be enjoyed.

Prepare the pasta: First, turn your broiler on to get it preheating. While that’s warming up, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This ensures your pasta holds up well when baked.
Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the cut chicken breast pieces and cook them just until they are no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. You want a nice golden color on the outside, which adds depth to your dish. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and let it melt over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk it gently to mix. Then, sprinkle in the flour and keep whisking until the sauce thickens—this should take about 5 minutes. Season it with salt and pepper, and then stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
Combine ingredients: By now, your sauce should be thick. If it feels too dense, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. Now, add the cooked chicken and the drained pasta back into the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated and mixed.
Finish the dish: Transfer the combined pasta and sauce mixture into a baking dish. Top it generously with mozzarella cheese. Place it under the broiler for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it, as broilers can vary in intensity.
Garnish and serve: Once out of the oven, let the dish sit for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese if preferred. This adds a beautiful touch and enhances the flavor! Now, serve it up and enjoy your creation!

Things Worth Knowing

Use a cast iron skillet: It distributes heat evenly and helps achieve a perfect bake.
Cooking pasta al dente: This ensures your pasta retains a slight bite and doesn’t turn mushy in the oven.
Watch the cheese carefully: When broiling, keep an eye on it to prevent burning; you want a lovely golden color, not charred bits.
Don’t skip the resting time: Letting the dish sit after baking helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier.

Change It Up

This Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is incredibly adaptable! Here are some great ideas for changing it up:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for 3 to 5 days, but make sure they’ve cooled before sealing.
Freezing: While this dish doesn’t freeze well, you can make it ahead and refrigerate it for a few days before baking.
Seasoning: Feel free to add a few teaspoons of Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in some spinach or broccoli for added nutrition. They work wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for a unique twist on the classic!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

Serving the Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas:

Pair with a salad: A fresh mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta bake perfectly.
Perfect for gatherings: This dish is ideal for holiday gatherings or family dinners; it brings everyone together around the table.
Leftover lunches: Pack leftovers for a quick and filling lunch option that’s sure to satisfy.
Garnish options: Consider adding fresh basil or oregano as a garnish for an aromatic finish.
Seasonal sides: Serve with roasted vegetables or garlic bread to round out the meal in winter.

FAQ

Absolutely! The Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is perfect for meal prep. You can cook everything in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking. Just make sure to cover your dish with foil to prevent it from drying out. When ready to serve, just pop it in the oven until heated through and bubbly!

If you’re looking for a substitute for chicken, consider using shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Alternatively, you could use cooked shrimp or even vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a vegetarian twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary based on your chosen protein or veggies!

Leftovers of the Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure it has cooled down before sealing it. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the creamy texture, or you can microwave it if you’re in a hurry!

This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the creamy sauce, which can change texture when frozen and thawed. Instead, I recommend preparing it fresh and enjoying it right away or keeping it in the fridge for a few days. If you have leftovers, they are still delicious when reheated!

Conclusion

The Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is truly a comforting dish that combines creamy flavors with tender chicken and pasta. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next dinner; it’s simple, satisfying, and sure to impress!

Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

The ultimate comfort food, the Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake combines creamy sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese for a mouthwatering experience. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this dish is easy to make and will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Make it tonight for a cozy meal everyone will love!

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 25

Total Time 30

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 530

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

16 ounces pasta (uncooked, I used elbow macaroni)
3 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
1 chicken breast (cut into small pieces)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup parmesan cheese (grated)
1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
salt and pepper to taste
parsley (for garnish)

Equipment

12-inch Cast Iron Skillet

Method

Prepare the pasta: Turn your broiler on. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp of the butter. Add chicken pieces and cook just until chicken is no longer pink and is beginning to slightly brown. Remove chicken from skillet.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining butter and melt it. Pour the heavy cream in the skillet and whisk it. Add the flour and continue whisking until sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper and add the Parmesan cheese. Continue whisking. By now the sauce should be pretty thick, use some of the pasta water to thin it out a bit. Add chicken and pasta to skillet and toss well.
Finish the dish: Top with mozzarella cheese and place under the broiler for about 5 minutes until cheese is bubbly and gets golden brown, checking often to make sure the top doesn't burn.
Garnish and serve: Garnish with parsley and more Parmesan cheese if preferred.

Notes

Tip 1: The sauce will seem thin when you start to mix in the pasta. Don’t worry, just keep tossing. The starches from the pasta will mix into the sauce to give the perfect consistency.
Tip 2: You can add a few tsp of Italian seasoning, a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes to add some flare to this sauce. Feel free to get creative with seasoning.
Tip 3: You can adjust the ratio of cream to milk in this recipe to suit how rich you’d like it to be.
Tip 4: You can store this recipe easily in the fridge. In an airtight container it’ll keep for 3 – 5 days just be sure it’s properly cooled before storing.