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
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the assembled pasta dish.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Combine ingredients: In a baking dish, mix the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and Alfredo sauce together until evenly coated.
- 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
