Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo pasta bake has become my ultimate comfort food, and I’m so excited to share it with you. I remember the first time I tried making it from scratch; the aroma of garlic and simmering cream filled my kitchen, promising a delicious meal. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and that luscious, cheesy sauce is pure magic. It’s the kind of dish that makes a regular Tuesday feel like a special occasion. Ready to create some magic in your own kitchen? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo

This dish is a game-changer for weeknight dinners and special gatherings alike. Here’s why you’ll want to make it again and again:

• It’s incredibly satisfying and hearty.
• The creamy, cheesy chicken alfredo sauce is simply divine.
• It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken.
• The crunchy breadcrumb topping adds amazing texture.
• This cheesy chicken alfredo is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for the whole family.
• It’s a relatively quick meal to get on the table.
• It’s the ultimate comfort food experience.

Ingredients for Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating your own delicious homemade chicken alfredo sauce. You’ll find that each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect, comforting flavor and texture.

• 8 oz (225 g) penne pasta – cooked al dente, as it will bake further
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!
• 2 cups heavy cream – the base for our luxurious sauce
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided – adds that sharp, nutty flavor
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided – for that irresistible cheesy pull
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that classic alfredo aroma and taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs for depth
• 1/2 tsp salt – to enhance all the flavors
• 1/4 tsp black pepper – for a subtle kick
• 1 cup broccoli florets (optional) – adds a bit of green and nutrition
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – for a delightful crunchy topping
• 2 tbsp olive oil – to toast the breadcrumbs
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – for a fresh finish

How to Make Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo

Creating this delicious dish is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to build layers of flavor for a truly comforting meal.

1. Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, cook your 8 oz (225 g) penne pasta in generously salted boiling water until it’s al dente. This is important because the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, and we don’t want it to get mushy. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine your 2 cups heavy cream with the 3 cloves minced garlic over medium heat. Let it gently simmer, watching for small bubbles to form around the edges. This process infuses the cream with a lovely garlic aroma.
3. Step 3: Reduce the heat to low and stir in 3/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese, along with the 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce has thickened beautifully. This is where the magic of a homemade chicken alfredo sauce really starts to happen.
4. Step 4: Now, in a large bowl, combine the drained pasta, 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, and the optional 1 cup broccoli florets. Pour the thickened Alfredo sauce over this mixture. Stir everything together gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated in that rich, creamy sauce.
5. Step 5: Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish. Spoon about half of the pasta and chicken mixture into the prepared dish. Sprinkle half of the 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over this layer. This is a key step for that delightful cheesy chicken alfredo texture.
6. Step 6: Add the remaining pasta mixture on top of the first layer. Then, sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese and the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese over the top. This ensures a fantastic cheesy crust.
7. Step 7: In a small bowl, mix the 1/2 cup breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer. This topping will toast up to a perfect golden brown, adding a wonderful crunch to your easy chicken alfredo with cream cheese.
8. Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be gloriously bubbly and the breadcrumb topping to be a rich, golden brown. The whole kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Step 9: Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving this amazing Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo

Want to elevate your pasta game? These simple tricks will ensure your Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo is always a hit, tasting like it came straight from your favorite Italian restaurant.

• Use good quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor in your homemade chicken alfredo sauce.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when toasting the breadcrumbs; do it in batches if needed for even crispiness.
• Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to soften in the oven.
• Let the bake rest for at least 5-10 minutes after coming out of the oven before serving.

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo?

The real secret to a perfect, rich and creamy chicken alfredo is the quality of your ingredients and not overcooking the sauce. Using freshly grated Parmesan and a good quality heavy cream makes a world of difference, ensuring a smooth, luscious sauce that coats every strand of pasta beautifully. This approach truly elevates it to the best chicken alfredo recipe. For more on achieving perfect pasta, check out these tips on cooking spaghetti with garlic and oil.

Can I make Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire bake, minus the breadcrumb topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the breadcrumb topping and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes. It’s a great way to prep for a busy weeknight dinner.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo?

A common pitfall is making the sauce too thin or too thick. Gently simmer the cream and cheese, stirring constantly, to achieve the perfect consistency. Also, be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the chicken and pasta. Keep an eye on that bubbly cheese and golden topping! For more on cooking techniques, you might find this guide on the beauty of food helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo

This rich and comforting pasta bake is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple additions to round out your dinner. For a lighter touch, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a fantastic contrast to the creamy pasta. You could also serve it alongside some crusty garlic bread, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. If you’re craving something similar but perhaps less baked, thinking about a classic chicken fettuccine alfredo recipe can inspire side dishes like roasted asparagus or steamed green beans. Consider trying our Caprese salad for a refreshing side.

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo

This hearty dish is a satisfying meal, and understanding its nutritional breakdown can help you fit it into your meal plan. Remember, these are estimates and can change based on your specific ingredient choices.

• Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/7th of the bake)
• Calories: Estimated 600-700 kcal
• Fat: Estimated 45-55 g
• Saturated Fat: Estimated 25-30 g
• Protein: Estimated 30-40 g
• Carbohydrates: Estimated 30-40 g
• Fiber: Estimated 2-4 g
• Sugar: Estimated 3-5 g
• Sodium: Estimated 800-1000 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo

This comforting dish is perfect for leftovers, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Once your delicious comfort food chicken alfredo has cooled down completely – which usually takes about an hour – it’s time to store it properly. For refrigeration, divide the bake into airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you plan to freeze portions, wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe bags. This ensures your creamy cheesy chicken alfredo stays good for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. For refrigerated portions, you can gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if it seems a bit dry, or microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. For frozen portions, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator first before reheating using either of these methods. Ensure the dish is heated through thoroughly before serving again.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo

What makes this Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo so rich and creamy?

The secret lies in the combination of heavy cream and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese, which creates a luscious, velvety sauce. We also use mozzarella for that extra gooeyness. It’s this blend that gives our creamy cheesy chicken alfredo its decadent texture, making it a truly satisfying dish.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is fantastic for holding the sauce, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes. Fettuccine, linguine, or even rigatoni work wonderfully. Just ensure you cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven, guaranteeing a perfect texture for your creamy cheesy chicken alfredo.

How can I make this dish lighter or healthier?

To lighten up this rich and creamy chicken alfredo, you could try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even a blend of milk and a little cornstarch to thicken. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients and fiber. Using whole wheat pasta is another great option to boost fiber content. For a healthy side, consider our Mediterranean chickpea salad.

What are some good side dishes to serve with Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo?

This hearty pasta bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad to cut through the richness. Steamed or roasted broccoli or asparagus also complement the dish nicely. For a more substantial meal, some crusty garlic bread is always a welcome addition, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your delicious creamy cheesy chicken alfredo.

Variations of Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, there are so many fun ways to switch up this beloved dish. Whether you’re looking for a dietary tweak or a flavor boost, these variations will keep your creamy cheesy chicken alfredo exciting.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or stir in some diced jalapeños along with the broccoli for a delightful heat.
• Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken and load up on extra vegetables! Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or sautéed mushrooms make fantastic additions for a meatless meal.
• One-Pan Wonder: Try a one-pan version by cooking the penne pasta directly in the sauce, though this requires careful liquid management. It simplifies cleanup significantly!
• Garlic Lover’s Dream: If you adore garlic, consider adding an extra clove or two to the sauce, or even roasting a head of garlic and mashing it into the cream for a deeper, sweeter garlic flavor profile. This really enhances the base of any good garlic chicken alfredo recipe.

Creamy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Magic

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• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 50 min
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting and cheesy chicken alfredo pasta bake featuring tender chicken, penne pasta, and a rich alfredo sauce, topped with melted cheese and a crunchy breadcrumb crust. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz (225 g) penne pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup broccoli florets (optional)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, combine heavy cream and minced garlic over medium heat until simmering.
4. Reduce heat, stir in 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until the sauce thickens.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, optional broccoli, and Alfredo sauce in a large bowl, stirring to coat.
6. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour half the pasta mixture into the dish, top with half the mozzarella.
7. Add the remaining pasta mixture, then top with the rest of the mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.
8. Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil in a small bowl, then sprinkle evenly over the top.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

• Using rotisserie chicken saves time.
• Ensure pasta is al dente as it will cook further in the oven.
• Slowly incorporate cheese for a smooth sauce.
• Greasing the baking dish prevents sticking.
• The breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch.
• Adjust salt and pepper to your taste.

• Prep Time: 15 min
• Cook Time: 35 min
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/7th of the bake)
• Calories: Estimated 600-700 kcal (will vary based on exact ingredients)
• Sugar: Estimated 3-5 g
• Sodium: Estimated 800-1000 mg
• Fat: Estimated 45-55 g
• Saturated Fat: Estimated 25-30 g
• Unsaturated Fat: Estimated 15-20 g
• Trans Fat: Estimated 0.5-1 g
• Carbohydrates: Estimated 30-40 g
• Fiber: Estimated 2-4 g
• Protein: Estimated 30-40 g
• Cholesterol: Estimated 120-150 mg