Creamy Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s an easy meal that feels special enough for guests or a cozy family dinner.

A white baking dish filled with baked rotini pasta has three visible layers: the bottom layer is creamy sauce with mushroom slices, the middle layer is cooked rotini pasta in yellow color mixed with mushrooms, and the top layer is melted golden-brown cheese with sprinkles of green parsley and black pepper. A large spoon rests inside the dish, partially scooping out the pasta with a piece of mushroom and sauce on it. The dish is placed on a wooden table with some green parsley leaves nearby, and the background shows a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 2 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
  • 8 ounces Fettuccine or Penne Pasta
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
  • 4 tablespoons Butter
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or vegetable oil as an alternative)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Step 2: Cook the fettuccine or penne in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Season chicken with salt and pepper, add to the skillet, and cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove from heat, slice into strips.
  5. Step 5: In the same skillet, melt butter, stir in heavy cream, and bring to a simmer. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese while stirring until melted; season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  6. Step 6: Combine cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and Alfredo sauce in a baking dish; mix well.
  7. Step 7: Bake for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Tips & Variations

  • Substitute cooked shrimp or mushrooms for chicken to switch up the protein or add extra veggies for a more colorful dish.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg to the Alfredo sauce for a subtle warm note.
  • Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a little butter on top before baking for a crunchy crust.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much.

How to Serve

Creamy Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short or tube-shaped pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini works well to hold the creamy sauce.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream and butter with dairy-free alternatives such as coconut cream and vegan butter, and use a non-dairy Parmesan-style cheese or nutritional yeast.

Print
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Creamy Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe


  • Author: Zoe
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Creamy Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a comforting and rich Italian-American dish featuring tender sautéed chicken breasts, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden on top, this hearty meal is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts

Pasta

  • 8 ounces Fettuccine or Penne Pasta

Sauce

  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
  • 4 tablespoons Butter
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or vegetable oil as an alternative)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the assembled pasta dish.
  2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or penne and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on pasta type. Drain and set aside.
  3. Sauté garlic: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Cook the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from heat and slice into strips.
  5. Make the Alfredo sauce: Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously, until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
  6. Combine ingredients: In a baking dish, mix the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and Alfredo sauce together until evenly coated.
  7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Notes

  • Ensure not to overcook the pasta initially as it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier texture.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smoother sauce.
  • Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top before serving for a fresh touch.
  • If preferred, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it may be less creamy.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: Baked Chicken Alfredo, Creamy Chicken Pasta, Fettuccine Alfredo, Baked Pasta, Easy Chicken Dinner, Italian Comfort Food

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