Oven-Baked Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bake: A Creamy Comfort Food Classic
Looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that’s loaded with creamy cheese and tender chicken? This Oven-Baked Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bake combines juicy shredded chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all topped with golden, bubbling cheese. It’s a family-friendly, crowd-pleasing comfort food dish that’s quick to prepare and impossible to resist.
Recipe Highlights:
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Family favorite
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One-pan convenience
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Freezer-friendly
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Ready in under 45 minutes
Ingredients for Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
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12 ounces penne pasta (or any short pasta of choice)
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2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
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2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the dish)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the cheese melts evenly and forms a golden crust.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 3: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add:
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Cooked penne pasta
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Shredded chicken
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Alfredo sauce
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Garlic powder
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Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper to taste
Mix everything until well combined to ensure every bite is full of flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. This prevents sticking and helps with even baking.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the pasta mixture into the greased dish. Use a spoon or spatula to spread it out evenly.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. This creates that irresistible golden-brown crust.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and golden brown on top.
Step 8: Cool and Garnish
Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired for added color and freshness.
Expert Tips & Variations
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Make it healthier: Use whole wheat pasta or add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition.
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Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or crushed chili to the Alfredo mixture for a spicy kick.
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Switch the protein: Try shrimp, bacon, or go vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding mushrooms.
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Try smoked cheeses: Enhance flavor by using smoked mozzarella or a dash of smoked paprika in the cheese topping.
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Meal prep friendly: Assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Storage & Reheating
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Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
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Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
This recipe is a comfort food dream—creamy, cheesy, and satisfying with every bite. It’s a perfect option for busy families, potlucks, or anyone craving a delicious homemade baked pasta dish.