Introduction
The Indulgent Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bake is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and a generous blend of cheeses, all baked to golden perfection. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures make it a beloved favorite, ensuring that every spoonful is packed with creamy, cheesy goodness.
What’s Unique About This Recipe
This recipe elevates the classic Chicken Alfredo by transforming it into a bake that is ideal for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead of time. The addition of multiple cheeses, including mozzarella, parmesan, and a touch of cream cheese, creates a depth of flavor and a luxurious texture that sets it apart from traditional pasta dishes. Furthermore, baking the assembled dish allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a top layer that’s irresistibly crispy and a center that remains creamy and rich.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
- Additional Ingredients:
- 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked al dente and drained
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Nutrition
Each serving of Indulgent Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bake approximately contains:
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 35g
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and milk, bringing to a simmer. Add the grated Parmesan and cream cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and white pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Stir until well mixed.
- Transfer to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and additional Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Tips
This Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bake is best served hot, straight from the oven, with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad to balance out the richness.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Absolutely! While penne works well, you can use any medium-sized pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle for similar results.
The Indulgent Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bake is a dish I turn to when I need a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels special without requiring too much effort. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or when I’m tasked with bringing a dish to a gathering. The rich, creamy layers of cheese and pasta combined with the savory chicken always yield compliments, making it a rewarding dish to prepare and serve.