Easy One-Dish Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
Imagine tender pieces of chicken enveloped in a creamy, decadent sauce, all baked to golden perfection. The aroma of garlic and Parmesan fills the kitchen, promising a comforting and satisfying meal. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the succulent chicken, the rich Alfredo sauce, and the slightly crisp, browned top a symphony of textures and flavors designed to please.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing Spoons
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese Grater
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Colander (for draining pasta)
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 pint heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for topping
- 1/4 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste
- 1 lb pasta such as penne, rotini, or farfalle, cooked according to package directions and drained
- Optional: 1 cup broccoli florets or other vegetables of choice
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375F (190C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Step 2: Saut Chicken and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking and saut until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Step 4: Add Parmesan and Season: Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is thickened slightly.
- Step 5: Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta and optional broccoli florets (or other vegetables) to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce and chicken. Toss to coat everything evenly.
- Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish and Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese on top.
- Step 7: Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
- Step 8: Rest and Serve: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
- Optional Tips:
- - For a richer flavor, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- - Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of spice.
- - To make it vegetarian, omit the chicken and add more vegetables.
Notes
Variations
The “One dish chicken Alfredo bake” recipe offers a versatile base for numerous adaptations:
- Ingredient Swaps:
- Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, sausage, or tofu.
- Pasta: Experiment with gluten-free pasta alternatives, or use gnocchi for a different texture.
- Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, bell peppers, asparagus, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.
- Cheese: Replace Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Regional Twists:
- Italian: Add sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil for a Mediterranean touch.
- Mexican: Incorporate jalapeos, corn, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a spicy kick. Top with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese.
- French: Use Gruyre cheese, add mushrooms and a splash of white wine to the Alfredo sauce.
- Dietary Adjustments:
- Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice in place of pasta.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream. Use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Lower Fat: Use skim milk and reduce the amount of butter and Parmesan cheese. Consider using light cream cheese.
Serving Suggestions
The “One dish chicken Alfredo bake” can be served in a variety of settings. It pairs well with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a simple side of roasted vegetables. Consider serving it as a main course for a casual dinner party, a family meal, or as a comforting dish for a potluck. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added visual appeal and flavor. The dish is best served warm, allowing the creamy sauce and melted cheese to fully express their flavors and textures.
Storage Tips
To preserve freshness, leftover “One dish chicken Alfredo bake” should be stored properly:
- Refrigeration: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350F (175C) until heated through. Add a splash of milk or cream to the sauce to prevent it from drying out during reheating.
- Freezing: While freezing is possible, the texture of the Alfredo sauce may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use pre-cooked chicken to save time? Answer: Yes, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken can be used. Simply shred or cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the recipe.
- Question 2: Can I make this dish ahead of time? Answer: Absolutely. The dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through.
- Question 3: How can I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick? Answer: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out. Be sure to stir constantly while heating the sauce.
- Question 4: What is the best type of pasta to use for this dish? Answer: Penne, rotini, and farfalle are excellent choices as their shapes hold the sauce well. However, any pasta shape that is suitable for creamy sauces can be used.