Ingredients

• 3 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 1 (8-ounce) package penne pasta
• ½ (16-ounce) jar Alfredo sauce
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: 420 kcal

Steps to Prepare

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with onion powder and garlic powder. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat until golden brown on the outside and fully cooked inside (about 6-8 minutes per side). Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

3. Combine the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, Alfredo sauce, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly coated.

4. Assemble the Pasta Bake

1. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
2. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese and the shredded Cheddar cheese over the top.

5. Bake

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden crust, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

6. Serve

1. Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a dish that resonates with people of all ages. Its appeal lies in its comforting flavors, creamy texture, and cheesy goodness. Pasta bakes like this one have been a staple in home kitchens for generations because they’re easy to prepare, incredibly versatile, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

This recipe combines the classic flavors of Alfredo sauce—a buttery, garlicky cream sauce with Parmesan—with the satisfying heartiness of baked pasta. The addition of chicken makes it a well-rounded meal, while the melted cheese topping adds a layer of indulgence that’s hard to resist. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, evoking memories of family dinners, potlucks, and holidays.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg
• Sodium: 680 mg
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 3 g

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While penne is ideal for its ability to hold the sauce, other pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli work well too.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the pasta bake up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and bake as directed.

3. Can I substitute the Alfredo sauce?
If you prefer a homemade touch, you can make your own Alfredo sauce using butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.

4. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes, adding steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas can enhance the dish and add a pop of color.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting as smoothly.
• Season Well: Properly seasoning the chicken and the sauce ensures that every bite is flavorful.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: For extra texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the cheese before baking.
• Broil for Extra Golden Cheese: A quick broil at the end of baking gives the cheese a beautiful golden color and slight crispness.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
2. Freezing: To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that combines the warmth of home-cooked food with the indulgence of restaurant-quality flavors. This dish is a celebration of the classics, blending tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and cheesy goodness into a comforting casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a casual weeknight meal, this recipe delivers on all fronts: taste, texture, and ease of preparation.

What makes this recipe truly timeless is its versatility and universal appeal. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, make it ahead of time, or double the recipe to feed a crowd. Its rich, creamy flavors and cheesy topping are guaranteed to win over even the pickiest eaters. And while it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, it’s also elegant enough to serve at a special gathering.

Ultimately, Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a dish that brings people together. It’s about sharing good food, creating memories, and savoring the simple pleasures of life. Whether you’re serving it to loved ones or enjoying it as leftovers, this recipe is one you’ll return to time and time again. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite for years to come.