Introduction
Get ready for the ultimate comfort food experience with this easy cheesy chicken alfredo casserole. This creamy and cheesy dish transforms classic Alfredo into a satisfying baked meal. It’s the perfect weeknight family dinner solution, bringing rich Alfredo sauce and tender chicken together in one pan. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, making delicious dining effortless.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Alfredo Casserole
- Quick & Easy: Assemble and bake this chicken alfredo casserole in no time, making dinner stress-free.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: It offers warm, hearty flavors perfect for any cozy mealtime.
- Simple Ingredients: You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will ask for seconds of this crowd-pleasing dish.
- Hearty & Satisfying: Each bite is full of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Creating this delicious chicken alfredo casserole starts with a few key ingredients. Gather these items, and you are well on your way to a fantastic meal.
- 16 ounce box penne pasta
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups cubed chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 (15 ounce) jars alfredo sauce
- 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided use)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided use)
- Chopped fresh parsley or dried parsley (for garnish, optional)
Notes & Substitutions
- Chicken: For a shortcut, use cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken.
- Pasta: Feel free to substitute penne with other shapes like rotini, bowtie, or ziti.
- Alfredo Sauce: You can use homemade Alfredo sauce if you prefer; just ensure you have enough for a creamy base.
- Cream Cheese: Always soften cream cheese to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free sauce.
- Milk: Whole milk provides the best richness and texture for this recipe.
- Vegetables: Boost your meal with steamed broccoli florets, fresh spinach, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Cheese: Experiment with different melty cheeses, like provolone or an Italian blend, for varied flavor.
Equipment
You only need a few basic kitchen items to create this comforting chicken alfredo casserole.
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Medium skillet for cooking chicken
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spatula
Instructions
Let’s assemble your incredible chicken alfredo casserole! Follow these easy steps for a fantastic meal.
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Set it aside.
Cook the 16 ounce box of penne pasta according to package directions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
Heat 2 Tablespoons of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add 3 cups of cubed chicken breasts to the skillet. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it is golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 (15 ounce) jars of alfredo sauce, the 8 ounce block of cream cheese softened to room temperature, 1 cup of whole milk, 3 minced cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth.
Add the cooked penne pasta and the cooked chicken to the creamy sauce mixture in the large bowl. Stir everything gently until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated in the sauce.
Next, stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese into the pasta and sauce mixture. This will add more gooey, cheesy flavor throughout the casserole.
Pour the entire mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out to ensure an even layer. Top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese. This forms a beautiful cheesy crust.
Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
Once baked, remove the chicken alfredo casserole from the oven. Garnish it with chopped fresh parsley or dried parsley if you desire. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving warm and enjoying this delightful family meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Alfredo Casserole
- Al Dente Pasta: Cook your pasta just until al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy when baked in the casserole. Achieving al dente pasta is crucial for baked casseroles, as it allows the pasta to absorb sauce without becoming overly soft. Learn more about what al dente means for pasta dishes.
- Softened Cream Cheese: Always use cream cheese softened to room temperature. It ensures a silky-smooth sauce without any lumps.
- Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver if you are in a rush.
- Layering: Distribute your ingredients evenly in the baking dish for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Baking Time: Avoid overbaking the casserole. Overbaking can make the pasta dry and tough.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to set, making it easier to serve.
- Prevent Dryness: Keep the casserole covered with foil during the initial baking phase to maintain moisture.
Serving Suggestions, Storage & Variations
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken alfredo casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides.
- Serve it alongside warm, cheesy garlic bread for an extra indulgent touch.
- A crisp, fresh green salad offers a nice contrast and balances the richness.
- Include steamed vegetables like tender green beans or asparagus for added nutrition.
- A light, clear soup can also make for a balanced and complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To ensure the safety of your leftovers, it’s important to follow USDA guidelines for storing cooked foods.
- Reheat (Microwave): For individual portions, microwave until heated through, usually 1-2 minutes.
- Reheat (Oven): Reheat an entire leftover casserole covered with foil at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Freezing: Due to the creamy sauce, freezing this dish is not recommended as it may separate upon thawing.
Variations
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture for a pleasant kick of heat.
- Different Meats: Swap chicken for browned Italian sausage, diced ham, or even shrimp for a different flavor profile.
- Extra Veggies: Incorporate more vegetables like diced bell peppers, frozen peas, or chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Cheese Blends: Experiment with other melty cheeses like sharp cheddar, provolone, or a pre-made Italian cheese blend.
- Breadcrumb Topping: Mix Panko breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking for a crispy crust.
Nutrition Information
Below is an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving for this chicken alfredo casserole. Please note these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 15g |
| Sodium | 980mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 5g |
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What type of chicken works best in this casserole?
Cooked cubed chicken breasts, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even cooked chicken thighs work wonderfully. Choose what’s easiest and most flavorful for you. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole completely without baking it, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before baking as directed. - What side dishes pair well with Chicken Alfredo Casserole?
Garlic bread, steamed vegetables (like broccoli or green beans), or a simple side salad are excellent companions to this rich dish. - Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Steamed broccoli florets, fresh spinach, or sautéed mushrooms are delicious and healthy additions. Stir them into the sauce mixture before baking. - How should I store and reheat leftover Chicken Alfredo Casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven.
Conclusion
This easy cheesy chicken alfredo casserole is truly a game-changer for busy weeknights. It combines the classic creamy, comforting flavors of Alfredo with the convenience of a baked dish. Your family will adore the tender chicken, al dente pasta, and an abundance of gooey, melted cheese. Try this recipe soon and discover your new favorite unforgettable meal!