Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe: 8 Steps to Cozy Comfort

Name: Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe: 8 Steps to Cozy Comfort
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 2 cups cooked chicken, diced; 3 cups alfredo sauce; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1 cup broccoli florets, blanched; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

August 16, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort dish: chicken alfredo pasta bake! This creamy, cheesy masterpiece is like a warm hug on a plate. I remember the first time I made it for my family—it was one of those chilly evenings, and the smell of that bubbling cheese filling the kitchen was just magical. As we gathered around the table, I watched everyone dive in, and the smiles said it all! The combination of tender pasta, succulent chicken, and rich alfredo sauce creates a dish that’s not just satisfying, but also makes you feel all cozy inside. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home too! Let’s get cooking, shall we?

chicken alfredo pasta bake recipe - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering all your ingredients beforehand makes the cooking process so much smoother! Here’s what you’ll need for my delicious chicken alfredo pasta bake:

12 oz penne pasta: This tubular pasta holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
2 cups cooked chicken, diced: I like using rotisserie chicken for ease, but any cooked chicken works great. Just make sure it’s diced into bite-sized pieces!
3 cups alfredo sauce: You can use store-bought for convenience or whip up a quick homemade version—either way, it’s going to be creamy goodness!
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: This cheese adds that ooey-gooey stretch we all love.
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated: For that salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish!
1 cup broccoli florets, blanched: The bright green crunch adds a lovely texture and color. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get some veggies in!
1/2 tsp garlic powder: A must for that aromatic flavor boost.
1/2 tsp black pepper: Just the right amount of spice!
1/4 tsp salt: Adjust according to your taste, especially if your alfredo sauce is already salted.
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: This is for garnishing, giving a pop of freshness to your baked dish.

Having everything prepped and measured out will make your cooking experience a breeze, and you won’t miss a beat while you’re mixing and baking! Let’s keep this delicious momentum going!

How to Prepare the Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe

Alright, let’s dive into the steps to create this creamy chicken alfredo pasta bake! It’s super simple and oh-so-satisfying. First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial because you want your bake to start cooking as soon as it hits that hot oven!

While the oven is warming up, cook your penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water; it can be a lifesaver if your alfredo sauce needs thinning later!

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, alfredo sauce, blanched broccoli, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it’s well coated and all those delicious flavors are mingling together. This is where the magic happens—just imagine that creamy goodness!

Now, transfer your pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure it’s spread out evenly for even baking. Then, sprinkle the mozzarella and parmesan cheese generously on top—this is what creates that golden, bubbly crust we all crave.

Pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s all golden and irresistible. Trust me, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will be hard to resist!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook 12 oz of penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, 2 cups diced cooked chicken, 3 cups alfredo sauce, 1 cup blanched broccoli, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and serving.

And there you have it! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious chicken alfredo pasta bake that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe

Ultimate Comfort Food: This dish is the epitome of comfort food! The creamy alfredo sauce combined with tender pasta and savory chicken makes every bite feel like a cozy hug.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, even on a busy weeknight, you can whip up this delicious meal without a hitch.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this dish! It’s a great way to get everyone around the table and enjoying a hearty meal together.
Make Ahead Option: You can easily prepare this pasta bake in advance. Just assemble it, refrigerate, and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins. Want to use shrimp or add spinach? Go for it! This recipe is versatile enough to accommodate your cravings.
Perfect for Leftovers: This pasta bake reheats beautifully! You can enjoy the leftovers as a quick lunch or dinner during the week.

Trust me, once you try this chicken alfredo pasta bake, it’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your home! It’s comforting, satisfying, and just downright delicious.

Tips for Success with the Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe

Now, let’s talk about some pro tips to elevate your chicken alfredo pasta bake to the next level! I’ve learned a few tricks along the way that can help make your dish even more delicious and enjoyable.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, aim for al dente when boiling. This will prevent it from becoming mushy when baked.
Use Quality Alfredo Sauce: Whether you’re making it homemade or buying store-bought, choose a high-quality alfredo sauce. The flavor of the sauce is key to the overall taste of your bake! Learn more about alfredo sauce variations here.
Experiment with Cheeses: While mozzarella and parmesan are a classic combo, feel free to mix in other cheeses like gouda or fontina for a richer flavor profile. Just remember to keep the cheese ratios balanced!
Add More Veggies: If you want to sneak in some extra nutrition, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Just make sure to cook them a bit beforehand to release excess moisture.
Get Creative with Proteins: If you’re in the mood for something different, shrimp, sausage, or even a medley of roasted vegetables can be delightful substitutes for chicken. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Make it Spicy: For those who love a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the pasta mixture or sprinkle some on top before serving. It adds a lovely kick!
Don’t Skip the Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or even some grated lemon zest on top before serving can really brighten up the dish and make it look extra appealing.
Perfect Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this chicken alfredo pasta bake recipe! Enjoy the cooking process, and don’t be afraid to make it your own!

Variations of the Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe

One of the best things about this chicken alfredo pasta bake is its versatility! You can easily switch things up to keep your meals exciting and cater to your cravings. Here are some delightful variations you might want to try:

Shrimp Alfredo Bake: If you’re in the mood for seafood, swap out the chicken for 2 cups of cooked shrimp. Just sauté the shrimp in a bit of olive oil with garlic until they turn pink before adding them to the pasta mixture. This gives a lovely ocean flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce!
Vegetable Medley: For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with a mix of your favorite vegetables. Think sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini—whatever you have on hand! Just make sure to cook them slightly before mixing to keep the bake from becoming too watery.
Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Experiment with different cheeses to create a rich, gooey topping! Try blending in some gouda, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar for a twist. Just remember to keep the total amount of cheese balanced to ensure it melts beautifully.
Pesto Alfredo Bake: Want to amp up the flavor? Mix in a few tablespoons of pesto with your alfredo sauce. The herby notes will elevate the dish and give it a fresh, vibrant taste that’s simply irresistible!
Spicy Chicken Alfredo: For those who love a kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños into the pasta mixture. You could also use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken for an extra flavor punch.
Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: If you’re looking for a healthier twist or have dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute regular penne with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it!

With these fun variations, you can create a new version of chicken alfredo pasta bake every time you make it! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this dish your own. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to comfort food, it’s nice to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s the estimated nutritional data for each serving of my delicious chicken alfredo pasta bake. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose, but this will give you a good idea:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 450
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 50g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 30g

This chicken alfredo pasta bake is not only satisfying but also packed with protein to keep you feeling full and energized! So, go ahead and indulge, knowing you’re enjoying a hearty meal. Just remember, you can always tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary needs or preferences!

FAQ Section

Can I make this chicken alfredo pasta bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the wrap and pop it into the oven. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s cooled down before sealing. This will keep it fresh for your next meal!

How do I reheat the chicken alfredo pasta bake?
To reheat, you can either pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or use the microwave. If using the microwave, cover it to prevent drying out and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. You can also add a splash of milk or a little more alfredo sauce to keep it creamy!

Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
Definitely! This recipe is super versatile. You can use shrimp, sausage, or even a mix of your favorite veggies if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on what you choose, so adjust accordingly!

Is this chicken alfredo pasta bake recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, it freezes beautifully! To freeze, let the pasta bake cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake it as usual.

Serving Suggestions

To round out your delicious chicken alfredo pasta bake, consider pairing it with some tasty sides or salads that complement its creamy goodness. Here are a few ideas:

Garlic Bread: A classic pairing! The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that extra alfredo sauce. It’s a must-have at the dinner table!
Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy Caesar dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta bake. Plus, it’s super easy to toss together!
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed veggies like green beans or carrots add a pop of color and nutrition to your meal without being overpowering. They’re a great way to balance the dish!
Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can brighten up the plate and add a fresh element to your meal.
Roasted Asparagus: This elegant side dish is easy to prepare and adds a lovely earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta.

These sides not only enhance your meal but also create a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will enjoy. Happy serving!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.