Craving a creamy, delicious comfort meal? This easy baked Chicken Alfredo is a dream come true! Ready in under an hour, it combines succulent chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and melted cheese for a meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
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Growing up, Sundays were all about family and food in our house. My mom used to make a fantastic Chicken Alfredo every week, and the rich aroma filled the entire home. This recipe reminds me of those lovely Sundays. When I make it now, it feels like a warm hug from those cherished times.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe boasts a creamy texture and rich flavor that’s hard to resist. It’s an ideal dish for busy nights because it’s simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, it feeds a crowd and is great for potlucks or family gatherings. With this recipe, you’re not just making a meal; you’re creating memories.
Ingredients Notes
Use fresh chicken breasts to ensure the best taste and texture. For the Alfredo sauce, jarred versions are convenient, but making your own from scratch enhances flavors significantly. Look for heavy cream and Parmesan cheese that melt smoothly, ensuring a luxurious consistency. For added zing, a hint of nutmeg or garlic can elevate the dish.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook pasta according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside. This timing allows you to prepare other ingredients simultaneously.
Step 2
In a large skillet, cook sliced chicken breasts in olive oil over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for extra flavor.
Step 3
Prepare the Alfredo sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over low heat, then adding garlic and cooking until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for a few minutes before adding Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and thickened.
Step 4
Combine pasta, cooked chicken, and Alfredo sauce in a large baking dish. Stir well to ensure everything is well-coated with the creamy sauce.
Step 5
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Storage Options
Store any leftover Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, portion into individual containers and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
To accommodate dietary preferences, substitute whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition. Try using shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
Serving Suggestions
This baked Chicken Alfredo is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. Pair it with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For special occasions, serve alongside a crisp white wine to elevate the dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Leave out the final cheese topping until you’re ready to bake it. Baking may take a bit longer since the dish will be cold, ensuring it’s heated evenly.
What can I use if I don’t have Parmesan cheese? If you’re out of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano as substitutes. They offer a similar texture and flavor, though they may alter the taste slightly to be more sharp or nutty.
How can I ensure my sauce is creamy and not grainy? To achieve a smooth sauce, grate your cheese finely and let it come to room temperature before adding it to the warm cream. Stir constantly while adding the cheese to ensure it melts evenly without clumping.
Whether it’s a nostalgic family gathering or a simple weekday meal, this baked Chicken Alfredo offers a comforting and satisfying dish that brings people together. Enjoy the creamy goodness and capture those cherished moments with every savory bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Make Delicious Baked Chicken Alfredo in 5 Simple Steps
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for greasing dish
- 1 pound fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast diced or shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped, for garnish
Alfredo Sauce
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups grated Asiago cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute while whisking.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens. Add salt, pepper, and garlic.
- Remove from heat and stir in Asiago, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted. Combine the cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
