Chicken Alfredo Bake

Name: Chicken Alfredo Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini); 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 2 cups Alfredo sauce; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup frozen peas (optional); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Ideas

When I first tried making Chicken Alfredo Bake, I was excited to create a comforting dish that combines creamy flavors with tender chicken and pasta. This recipe quickly became a family favorite! The harmony of the velvety Alfredo sauce with perfectly baked chicken and cheesy goodness makes it a delightful weeknight meal. I love how simple it is to prepare, yet it feels like a special occasion dish. If you're looking to impress with minimal effort, this one-pot wonder is sure to please everyone at the table.

Created by

Cecilia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:17:34.861Z

When I crafted my Chicken Alfredo Bake, the goal was to marry rich, creamy flavors with the comforting appeal of baked pasta. I discovered that adding a blend of cheeses not only amplified the taste but also created a delightful texture that the family simply adores. During testing, I used varying amounts of chicken, and I found that using shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds incredible flavor.

One of my favorite tips is to bake the dish uncovered for the last few minutes to achieve that gorgeous, golden crust on top. The smell wafting through the kitchen is irresistible, and the moment I take it out of the oven, I know it's going to be a hit. This recipe truly brings everyone together around the dinner table!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy Alfredo sauce enveloping tender pasta adds ultimate comfort.
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Perfectly baked with a golden crust that enhances the flavor.

Creating the Perfect Alfredo Sauce

To truly elevate your Chicken Alfredo Bake, the quality of your Alfredo sauce is crucial. A homemade sauce allows you to adjust the creaminess and flavor according to your preferences. Start with butter, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan, allowing the mixture to simmer gently until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Avoid high heat, which can cause the sauce to separate. If you’re short on time, store-bought sauces work well, but opt for a brand that emphasizes natural ingredients for the best results.

When combining your cooked pasta and shredded chicken with the Alfredo sauce, ensure everything is evenly coated. This is where layering flavors matter most. The pasta should absorb some of the sauce as it bakes, while the chicken will become infused with the creamy goodness. Feel free to whisk in some extra garlic or onion powder if you enjoy a more robust flavor profile in your dish.

Baking for Optimal Texture

Baking the Chicken Alfredo Bake at 350°F (175°C) is essential for achieving that beautifully bubbly and golden top. Keep an eye on the dish as it cooks; after 25 minutes, check for visual cues like melted cheese starting to brown and the edges bubbling. This ensures that not only is the cheese melting, but also that the dish is heated through. If the top isn’t achieving your desired golden color after 30 minutes, you can briefly broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.

Allow your Chicken Alfredo Bake to rest for about 5-10 minutes once out of the oven. This resting period helps the sauce set slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing it from being overly saucy on the plate. This technique also enhances the flavors as they have a chance to meld together, giving your dish a more cohesive taste. If you have leftovers, this resting will help with storage as well.

Customizing Your Bake

One of the great aspects of this Chicken Alfredo Bake is its versatility. You can easily customize it to fit dietary preferences or available ingredients. For a lighter version, swap out half of the pasta for steamed broccoli or cauliflower. This not only adds nutrition but also enhances the dish’s texture without compromising on the creamy experience. Similarly, you can introduce grilled shrimp or sautéed mushrooms if chicken is not available, adapting the flavors to suit what you have on hand.

If you’re looking to prepare this dish ahead of time, assemble everything in the baking dish without adding the cheese on top. Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, add the cheese and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure it heats through. This make-ahead strategy is excellent for meal prep or hosting dinner parties, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with your guests rather than cooking right before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start your Chicken Alfredo Bake:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
2 cups Alfredo sauce
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup frozen peas (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure you have all these ingredients ready for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Chicken Alfredo Bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, and frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Layer and Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Enjoy your Chicken Alfredo Bake with a side salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the mixture before baking. Adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference for creaminess.

Ingredient Storage Tips

If you have leftover cooked chicken or pasta, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Cooked chicken can last up to four days, while pasta should be consumed within three to five days. When you're ready to make your Chicken Alfredo Bake, avoid reheating the chicken and pasta too much before combining them with the sauce, as this can lead to dryness. Using them cold might sound counterintuitive, but this can help retain moisture during the baking process.

For frozen peas, simply toss them into the mixture directly; they will cook through in the oven. If you have extra sauces or cheeses from other meals, they can be added to the dish for enhanced flavor. Using unused ingredients not only reduces waste but also allows for a unique twist on the classic version.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Chicken Alfredo Bake when serving, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad. A light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing contrast, while toasted garlic bread can add an appealing crunch. This balance of flavors will keep your meal satisfying without overwhelming the palate.

Another fun serving idea is to serve it in individual portions in small cast-iron skillets or ramekins. Not only does this create a visually appealing presentation, but it also gives everyone their own 'personal' bake, which can be especially great for dinner parties. Feel free to sprinkle extra herbs or chili flakes on top just before serving for an added kick and color.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought sauces save time and still taste great.

→ What other veggies can I add?

You can add broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Alfredo sauce is also gluten-free.