Let me share with you a cozy and irresistible dish that’s become a favorite in my kitchen: the Cheese Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe. This creamy, cheesy pasta bake blends tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you up in warmth and satisfaction from the very first bite, perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or just treating yourself after a busy day. Once you try this Cheese Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe, it might just become your go-to comfort food too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Cheese Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward yet pack a powerful flavor punch. Each item plays a crucial role—from the pasta providing a hearty base, to the cheeses adding luscious creaminess and meltiness, and the chicken bringing protein and heartiness.
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta: These short pastas hold the sauce beautifully, ensuring every forkful is coated in creamy goodness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the garlic without burning.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded: Tender and mild, chicken makes this bake filling and hearty.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: The foundation for a silky roux that thickens the Alfredo sauce perfectly.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Combines with butter to create the roux that thickens your sauce just right.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and balances out the richness of the heavy cream.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Elevates the sauce with a luxuriously smooth texture.
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty flavor essential to Alfredo sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that irresistible gooey topping.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant, herbaceous note that ties every element together.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional): Offers a fresh, vibrant color and mild herb taste as garnish.
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (optional topping): Gives a satisfying golden crunch to contrast the creamy interior.
How to Make Cheese Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F to ensure it’s ready when your bake goes in. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until it’s just al dente—this means the bites will have a little firmness, so they don’t get mushy during baking. Drain and set aside. If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, now’s the time to cook and dice or shred it for a perfect texture in the dish.
Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce Base
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant—watch closely so it doesn’t brown. Add the butter and let it melt gently. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a golden roux, the key to thickening your sauce. The roux should bubble but not brown, giving the sauce a silky smooth finish.
Step 3: Add the Dairy Creaminess
Slowly whisk in whole milk and heavy cream, stirring consistently to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens beautifully, about 5 to 7 minutes. This base is what turns the dish into pure comfort on a spoon. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and half of your mozzarella, melting them fully into the sauce for incredible depth and richness.
Step 4: Season and Combine
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, plus salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well to distribute the seasoning evenly. Now add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce, stirring gently so every piece is coated in that luscious Alfredo goodness. This layering of flavors is what makes the Cheese Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe so unforgettable.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and pour in your pasta and chicken mixture. Spread it evenly, then top with the remaining mozzarella cheese for that classic melty finish. If you love a crunchy topping, sprinkle the seasoned breadcrumbs over the cheese. Bake everything for 20 to 25 minutes until the dish is bubbly and the top has taken on a beautiful golden hue.
How to Serve Cheese Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a subtle herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness of this bake. It’s a simple touch that instantly makes your presentation look professional and inviting.
Side Dishes
Keep it classic with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. These fresh, slightly acidic sides complement the creamy, cheesy depths of the Alfredo bake perfectly, balancing out each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this bake in individual ramekins for personal portions that impress on any dinner table. You could also sprinkle some extra fresh herbs or even a dash of chili flakes to add a touch of color and heat, making each serving uniquely yours.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (and trust me, it happens quickly), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld wonderfully overnight, so your next meal will be just as delicious, if not better.
Freezing
This Cheese Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers before baking or freeze the fully baked dish after it cools completely. Keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months to enjoy fuss-free future meals.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the thawed or refrigerated portions at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist, removing the foil in the last few minutes if you want to refresh that golden top.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Parmesan and mozzarella are traditional for their melt and flavor, feel free to experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a bit of cheddar for a sharper kick. Just keep the balance so the sauce stays creamy and smooth.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream for the sauce?
Heavy cream adds richness, but if you want a lighter option, you can use all milk or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt for tanginess. The sauce will be less decadent but still delicious.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. Simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You might want to add some plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh to keep it hearty.
What’s the best pasta to use for this bake?
Penne or rotini are ideal because their shapes hold onto the sauce well. However, any short pasta such as rigatoni, elbow macaroni, or shells works great too. Just avoid long pasta that won’t bake evenly.
How can I make the topping extra crispy?
Sprinkling seasoned breadcrumbs on top before baking gives a satisfying crunch. For an even crispier crust, mix a bit of melted butter into the breadcrumbs or add grated Parmesan cheese for a golden, flavorful finish.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is the ultimate comfort meal that feels both indulgent and homemade. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and bubbly cheesy topping combine to create a dish that’s downright addictive. I encourage you to make it soon—the smiles from your family or friends around the dinner table will be the perfect reward for your effort.
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Cheese Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cheese Chicken Alfredo Bake is a creamy, cheesy pasta casserole featuring tender chicken, a rich Alfredo sauce made with Parmesan and mozzarella, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this comforting American main course is baked to golden perfection, delivering a hearty, delicious meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (optional topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and cook pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Make the roux: Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk continuously. Cook the roux for 1 to 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Create Alfredo sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly. Continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens smoothly.
- Add cheese and seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese. Season the sauce with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and chicken with sauce: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the sauce, stirring to combine thoroughly.
- Prepare for baking: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in the pasta mixture. Evenly sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. If desired, add the seasoned breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley if using, then serve hot.
Notes
- For a shortcut, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.
- Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni can be substituted.
- Assemble the dish ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready for convenience.
- For extra richness, stir in a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce while cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
