Chicken Alfredo Bake is the epitome of comfort food, offering a delightful combination of tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly baked pasta. This dish is a family favorite, ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. The rich, cheesy flavor paired with the savory chicken makes for a mouthwatering meal that is both filling and satisfying. It’s simple to prepare, and the best part is that it can be made ahead of time and baked when needed. This recipe delivers a hearty, creamy indulgence that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 pound penne pasta, cooked al dente
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Allow the broth to reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and whole milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
- Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan to the skillet. Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Season the sauce with dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the creamy chicken Alfredo sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top the pasta with extra mozzarella cheese for a cheesy crust.
- Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake!
This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake until hot and bubbly for a stress-free, delicious meal. Perfect for feeding a crowd or for those cozy nights when you crave a flavorful, creamy dish.