Easy Creamy One Dish Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe!
Imagine tender chicken enveloped in a velvety, cheese-laden sauce, blanketing perfectly cooked pasta. Each bite is a symphony of creamy richness, balanced by the savory notes of the chicken and the comforting texture of the pasta. The subtle hint of garlic and parmesan elevates the experience, making it a truly satisfying and indulgent meal.
Equipment
- Large skillet: For sauting the chicken and preparing the Alfredo sauce.
- Large pot: For cooking the pasta.
- 9x13 inch baking dish: For assembling and baking the dish.
- Mixing spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce and combining ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Colander: For draining the cooked pasta.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 pound pasta fettuccine, penne, or rotini
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for topping
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat Oven & Cook Pasta: Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Step 2: Saut Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until cooked through and lightly browned, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: Prepare Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Step 4: Add Parmesan Cheese & Season: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Step 5: Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish & Bake: Pour the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bake is heated through.
- Step 7: Garnish & Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
- Optional Tips: For a richer flavor, use a combination of Parmesan and Romano cheese. To add vegetables, stir in cooked broccoli florets or spinach leaves along with the chicken. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce.
Notes
Variations
The “Creamy one dish chicken alfredo bake recipe” lends itself to numerous adaptations.
- Ingredient Swaps: Shrimp or sausage can replace chicken. Different types of pasta, such as rigatoni or farfalle, offer textural variety. Vegetables like broccoli, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes can be added for enhanced nutritional value and visual appeal. Cheeses such as mozzarella, provolone, or asiago can be combined with Parmesan for a more complex flavor profile.
- Regional Twists: A Tuscan-inspired variation can include sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a touch of pesto. A Southwestern twist might incorporate chili powder, black beans, and corn, topped with a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a lower-carb option, substitute zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for pasta. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. A lighter version can be achieved by using reduced-fat cream cheese or milk instead of heavy cream. For a vegetarian adaptation, substitute the chicken with mushrooms or a medley of roasted vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This bake is best served hot, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread complements the meal. Its suitable for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings. For a more elegant presentation, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Storage Tips
To preserve freshness, allow the bake to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, it will remain palatable for up to 3-4 days. Reheating can be done in the oven at 350F (175C) until heated through, or in the microwave. Adding a splash of milk or cream during reheating can help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate upon thawing, affecting the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, the bake can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. - Question 2: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, using pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, can further reduce preparation time. - Question 3: What if my Alfredo sauce is too thick?
Stir in a little milk or chicken broth to thin the sauce to the desired consistency. - Question 4: What type of Parmesan cheese should I use?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended for the best flavor and melting quality. Pre-shredded Parmesan may not melt as smoothly.