Name: Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked in salted water according to package directions; 3 cups diced cooked chicken; 3 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons flour; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided use; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking spray; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 9 reviews

If you are craving a dish that wraps you in pure comfort and satisfies everyone at the table, the Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is your answer. This luscious casserole combines perfectly cooked penne pasta and tender chunks of chicken in a creamy Alfredo sauce that is seasoned just right and topped with bubbling, golden cheese. It’s the kind of meal that makes weeknight dinners feel special and feeding a crowd delightfully easy. Every bite brings together rich flavors and indulgent textures that make it a timeless favorite in any kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl holds three visible layers: the bottom layer is cooked penne pasta in a pale yellow color with smooth texture, the middle layer is a creamy white sauce spread evenly over the pasta, and the top layer consists of diced pieces of cooked chicken with a light brown, slightly crispy outside and white interior, scattered evenly on top. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple staples that come together to create an irresistibly creamy and cheesy pasta bake. Each item plays a key role—whether it’s the tender chicken adding protein, the rich dairy creating that silky sauce, or the cheese giving that golden, melty finish and irresistible aroma.

12 ounces penne pasta: Cooked al dente to provide the perfect pasta base that holds the sauce beautifully.
3 cups diced cooked chicken: Adds savory protein and heartiness to make the dish satisfying.
3 tablespoons butter: Creates the luscious base for the Alfredo sauce.
2 tablespoons flour: Helps thicken the sauce to a creamy perfection.
1 teaspoon minced garlic: Introduces a subtle aromatic punch that enhances depth of flavor.
2 cups whole milk: Offers richness and creaminess to the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: Elevates the sauce’s silkiness and indulgence.
3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: Gives that nutty, savory flavor signature to Alfredo sauce.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Provides gooey texture and a bubbly, melty top layer.
Salt and pepper to taste: Balances flavors perfectly without overpowering.
Cooking spray: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
1 tablespoon chopped parsley: Adds a fresh, colorful finish to the baked dish.

How to Make Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, which allows it to reach the perfect temperature to bake everything evenly. Grease a 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray so your creamy pasta doesn’t stick and you get a lovely crust on the edges.

Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter until its aroma fills your kitchen. Toss in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Whisk in the flour and stir constantly for about a minute to cook out the raw taste but keep it smooth.

Step 3: Add Creamy Liquids and Cheese

Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking steadily so no lumps form. Allow the sauce to gently simmer and thicken—it’s that moment when you know it’s going to be velvety and rich. Stir in the parmesan and half of your mozzarella cheese until melted and incorporated. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to bring balance to all that creaminess.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

In a large bowl, toss the cooked penne pasta with the diced chicken. Pour your luscious Alfredo sauce over everything, folding gently to ensure each piece is coated in that creamy goodness.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer your creamy pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella evenly on top to create a bubbly, golden crust as it bakes. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese on top has a beautiful light brown hue that’s enough to make your mouth water.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped parsley over the surface. This little touch gives the dish a pop of color and a fresh hint that balances the richness of the bake perfectly. Time to dive in!

How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe

A white square dish filled with baked pasta in three layers: the bottom layer is tender pasta mixed with pieces of cooked chicken, the middle layer is creamy white sauce covering the pasta, and the top layer is melted cheese that is golden brown with spots of light browning, sprinkled with small bits of green herbs. A woman's hand is lifting a forkful from the dish, showing cheese stretching in long strings from the dish to the fork. The dish is on a white marbled surface with a green and white striped cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a touch of cracked black pepper on top keeps things visually appealing and adds just a bit of brightness to each bite. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild kick if you like a bit of heat with your creamy comfort food.

Side Dishes

Since the Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is so rich and creamy, pairing it with a crisp green salad or lightly steamed vegetables helps balance the meal. Roasted asparagus, garlic green beans, or a simple Caesar salad are perfect sides that won’t overpower the main dish but add fresh textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

This dish looks fantastic served straight from the baking dish for a family-style feast, but feel free to portion it into individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. A drizzle of extra parmesan or a few chiffonades of basil leaves can also elevate the look and taste at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually develop and meld beautifully overnight, so it’s a great make-ahead meal to enjoy for lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

This Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe freezes well. To freeze, cover the unbaked assembled dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed for a convenient meal ready when you need it.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes, covering loosely with foil to keep the pasta from drying out. You might want to add a splash of milk when reheating to keep the sauce creamy and lush.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce well, you can also use rotini, rigatoni, or even fusilli. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when baked.

Is it better to use fresh chicken or rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Either works beautifully. Using cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor, but freshly cooked diced chicken breast grilled or pan-seared will offer a clean, fresh taste. Whichever you choose, the key is having tender, bite-sized pieces evenly distributed.

Can I substitute milk and cream for a healthier option?

You can use lower-fat milk, but keep in mind that heavy cream is essential for that classic Alfredo creaminess and richness. To lighten it up, try a half and half mixture, but the texture and flavor will be slightly less decadent.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit the chicken and add hearty vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also toss in some spinach or artichoke hearts to keep it delicious and satisfying without the meat.

What is the best way to ensure the sauce is perfectly smooth?

Whisk constantly when adding the milk and cream to the roux (butter and flour mixture) and keep the heat at medium so the sauce thickens gradually without clumping. Patience is key for that ultra-smooth, luscious sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that will quickly become one of your go-to comfort meals. It blends ease of preparation with rich, creamy flavors that delight every forkful. Give it a try and see how it brings warmth and joy to your dining table, time and time again.