What’s better than regular pasta? A warm, cheesy baked chicken alfredo pasta!
This baked chicken alfredo pasta takes the classic Italian-American favorite and turns it into a cozy casserole that’s perfect for family dinners. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta all in one dish, it’s the kind of meal that makes everyone happy. If you think there’ll be leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch, you might want to think again.
Ingredient Substitutions
Heavy cream can be replaced with a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt to reduce fat content while maintaining creaminess. Use 1 cup milk and 1 cup Greek yogurt as a substitute. This swap also increases protein content. For a dairy-free option, use unsweetened coconut cream, which provides a similar richness.
Penne pasta can be substituted with whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients. For a low-carb alternative, use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as these alternatives may cook faster than traditional pasta.
Cooked chicken can be replaced with grilled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. These plant-based proteins absorb flavors well and provide a similar texture. For a different flavor profile, consider using cooked turkey or even shrimp as an alternative protein source. Adjust cooking times if using raw seafood.
| Preparation Time | 15-20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30-40 minutes |
| Total Time | 45-60 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 3000-3500
- Protein: 150-180 g
- Fat: 200-250 g
- Carbohydrates: 250-280 g
Ingredients
For the pasta:
- 16 oz penne pasta (Barilla is a good choice for consistent texture)
For the alfredo sauce:
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese (freshly grated from a block for best melt and taste)
- 1/2 tsp minced garlic
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground for better flavor)
- 2 cups heavy cream (full-fat for richness)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian herbs
- 1/2 cup butter (unsalted, melted in the pan)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature for smooth blending)
For the assembly and topping:
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the penne pasta.
Cook according to the package directions, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes.
Once the pasta is cooked to your desired tenderness, drain and rinse it under cold water.
Set it aside for later use.
Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, add butter, heavy whipping cream, and cream cheese.
Allow these ingredients to melt, stirring frequently.
Once melted, mix in the minced garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
Whisk the mixture continuously until it becomes smooth.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, bringing the sauce to a simmer.
Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce starts to thicken.
Step 3: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Chicken
Return the cooked pasta back to the pot.
Pour the prepared Alfredo sauce over the pasta.
Add the cooked chicken into the pot, stirring everything together until the pasta and chicken are well-coated with the sauce.
Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Bake
Take a 9×13 baking dish and spread half of the pasta mixture evenly across the bottom.
Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over this initial layer.
Next, add the remaining pasta mixture on top of the cheese layer.
Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to create a flavorful, cheesy crust.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Place the assembled dish into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-30 minutes.
Watch closely and bake until the cheese on top turns golden brown and bubbly.
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy baked pasta dish!
