Description
Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bake
Ingredients
:
For the Alfredo Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bake:
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
3 cups cooked pasta (penne or fettuccine)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
:
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
Assemble the Bake:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, pasta, and Alfredo sauce. Mix well.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve and Garnish:
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve hot!
This creamy and cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bake is comfort food at its finest! Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Enjoy every gooey bite!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for a foolproof bake. First, cook your pasta to al dente and shred your cooked chicken. For the sauce, ensure your heavy cream is at room temperature to prevent curdling. Melt butter, sauté garlic until just golden, then pour in the cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer—do not boil vigorously. Remove from heat before whisking in the Parmesan, allowing residual heat to melt it smoothly. Combine sauce, pasta, and chicken thoroughly. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella and seasoning. Bake on the oven’s center rack until the top is spotty brown and the edges are bubbling.
Serving Suggestions
This rich bake pairs perfectly with light, fresh sides. Serve with a crisp Caesar salad, garlic breadsticks, or steamed broccoli. For a brighter contrast, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette works wonderfully. To elevate a dinner party, plate individual portions and garnish with extra parsley, red pepper flakes, and a twist of black pepper.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook pasta and shred chicken. Make sauce by sautéing garlic in butter, simmering cream, and whisking in Parmesan. Combine all with sauce in a bowl, transfer to a dish, top with mozzarella and Italian seasoning. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes until golden. Garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of heavy cream? For a lighter version, half-and-half works, but the sauce will be less rich. Do not use milk, as it can separate.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or cover with foil and warm in a 175°C (350°F) oven until heated through.
Can I use a different cheese? For the sauce, only use finely grated, real Parmesan for proper melting. For the topping, provolone, fontina, or a Mexican blend are great alternatives to mozzarella.
Why is my sauce grainy? Graininess often comes from overheating the cheese or using pre-grated Parmesan with anti-caking agents. Always grate your own cheese and add it off the direct heat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Garlic: Burnt garlic turns bitter. Sauté just until fragrant.
- Boiling the Cream Sauce: A hard boil can cause the sauce to break or curdle. Maintain a gentle simmer.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream or cheese to hot butter can shock the sauce. Let them sit out briefly.
- Underseasoning: Alfredo sauce needs ample seasoning. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before assembling.
- Overbaking: This dries out the pasta. Bake only until the cheese is melted and golden.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bake is the ultimate reliable comfort meal, combining creamy homemade sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly melted cheese. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a consistently delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or sharing with friends. Its versatility and make-ahead potential make it a valuable addition to your recipe repertoire. Dig in and enjoy the cozy, satisfying flavors.