Chicken Alfredo Bake: Creamy, Cheesy, and Satisfying

Quick Benefits

Chicken Alfredo Bake is a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Easy to Make: Simple steps with pantry-friendly ingredients.
• Rich and Flavorful: A creamy Alfredo sauce with a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
• Protein-Packed: Chicken adds a hearty protein boost.
• Customizable: Add vegetables or switch up the cheese blend to suit your taste.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!

Essential Ingredients

To make this delicious Chicken Alfredo Bake, gather the following ingredients:

• Pasta and Chicken:
  • 12 oz. package penne pasta
  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (marinated in Italian dressing if desired)
  • 1–2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Alfredo Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups half and half
  • 3 cups milk
  • 3 cups Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend (divided)
  • Italian seasoning (for garnish)

Preparation Steps

1. Marinate and Cook Chicken: If desired, marinate chicken in Italian dressing. Slice in half for even cooking. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, season the chicken with salt, pepper, thyme, and poultry seasoning, and cook until fully done. Set aside to cool before cutting into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil penne pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes. Whisk in flour until bubbling, then gradually add half and half and milk. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in 1 ½ cups of Italian Five Cheese Blend until melted and thickened.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and Alfredo sauce.
5. Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray, spoon in the pasta mixture, and top with the remaining 1 ½ cups of cheese. Sprinkle with black pepper.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with Italian seasoning before serving hot.

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: Chicken provides a solid source of lean protein for muscle health.
• Calcium-Rich: The cheese and milk contribute to strong bones and teeth.
• Balanced Carbs and Fats: Pasta gives you energy, while the creamy sauce offers healthy fats.
• Customizable for More Nutrition: Adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli increases fiber and vitamins.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Pairings: Serve with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
• Wine Match: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully.
• Fresh Garnishes: Sprinkle with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil for added depth of flavor.

Creative Variations

• Add Vegetables: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for a nutritious boost.
• Try Different Cheeses: Use mozzarella, Parmesan, or a smoky gouda for a unique twist.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning for a bit of heat.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a flour alternative for thickening the sauce.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
• Freezing: Freeze in a covered, freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Pro Tips

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
• Double the Recipe: This dish freezes well, so make an extra batch for an easy future meal.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Slightly undercook it before baking to prevent mushiness.
• Make it Lighter: Swap half and half with whole milk and reduce the cheese for a lower-calorie version.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! Fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle work well as substitutes.

3. What’s a good cheese alternative if I don’t have an Italian blend?
Try a mix of mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone for a similar flavor.

4. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Slowly heat the milk and half and half, and avoid boiling the sauce too aggressively.

5. Can I add crispy topping for extra texture?
Yes! A mix of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese makes a great crunchy topping before baking.

Enjoy this creamy, cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bake with your loved ones!

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