Chicken Alfredo Bake: A Quick and Creamy Comfort Meal

This Chicken Alfredo Bake is an easy-to-make, creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Featuring penne pasta, rotisserie chicken, and a rich Alfredo sauce, this baked casserole combines all the comforting flavors of traditional chicken Alfredo in a fraction of the time. Paired with garlic bread and a green salad, it’s a complete, no-fuss meal your family will love.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of baking time, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Minimal Ingredients: You can whip up this dish with ingredients you likely already have at home, like penne pasta, rotisserie chicken, and Parmesan cheese.
• Comfort Food: The creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken make this a comforting dish that’s both filling and satisfying.
• Versatile: You can easily adjust the recipe by adding extra vegetables, herbs, or different types of cheese to suit your taste.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Chicken Alfredo Bake:

• 2 cups penne pasta: The base of the dish, providing a hearty, satisfying texture.
• 1 tablespoon butter: For sautéing the garlic and creating a smooth Alfredo sauce.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Adds savory flavor to the sauce.
• 1 ½ tablespoons all-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce and create a creamy consistency.
• ½ cup 1% milk: Adds creaminess without the heaviness of whole milk.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Provides richness and a velvety texture to the Alfredo sauce.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese: A must for a flavorful, cheesy sauce.
• 1 pinch ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, aromatic note to the sauce.
• 1 cup cubed rotisserie chicken: For added protein and convenience, rotisserie chicken makes this recipe come together quickly.

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until tender yet firm to the bite, about 11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook until a paste forms.
3. Add Milk and Cream: Gradually pour in the milk and cream, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth. Stir in ¾ of the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and a pinch of nutmeg. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
4. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked penne pasta and cubed rotisserie chicken to the sauce, stirring to combine and coat everything evenly.
5. Bake: Pour the pasta and sauce mixture into a casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then serve hot with your favorite sides.

Health Benefits

This Chicken Alfredo Bake has a few health benefits, though it’s more of an indulgent dish:

• Protein: The rotisserie chicken provides a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Calcium: The Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese contributes calcium, which is necessary for strong bones and teeth.
• Fiber: The penne pasta provides a small amount of dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion.
• Vitamins and Minerals: While this dish is rich in fats, the garlic and nutmeg add small amounts of vitamins and minerals that can support immune health and digestion.

This dish is best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake due to the richness of the cheese and cream.

Serving Suggestions

• With Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy, buttery garlic bread to complement the creamy pasta.
• Green Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta and provides freshness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts for a nutritious, crunchy side.
• Extra Cheese: Sprinkle some extra Parmesan or mozzarella on top before baking for an extra cheesy crust.

Creative Variations

• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the casserole.
• Swap the Chicken: Use cooked shrimp or turkey instead of chicken for a variation on this classic dish.
• Use Different Pasta: If you prefer, swap the penne pasta for another type of pasta like rotini, rigatoni, or fettuccine.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based cream, dairy-free cheese, and vegan pasta for a dairy-free version of this dish.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

Pro Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven. This will help prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Make It Ahead of Time: You can prepare this dish up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just assemble it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano will melt better and provide a richer flavor than pre-grated cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can use mozzarella, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses for different flavors. Just keep in mind that the texture of the sauce may vary depending on the cheese.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire dish and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, then bake as directed when ready to serve.

3. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes! You can use gluten-free pasta in place of regular penne to make this dish gluten-free. Just be sure to cook the gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions.

4. Can I add more protein?
Absolutely! You can add more protein by including additional rotisserie chicken, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

This Chicken Alfredo Bake is a quick, creamy, and satisfying meal that will please everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a comforting dinner ready in no time!

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