Dinner

Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe

Name: Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked in salted water according to package directions; 3 cups diced cooked chicken; 3 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons flour; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided use; 1/2 cup in sauce, 1 cup for topping); Cooking spray; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

ByThomas Greene January 15, 2026January 15, 2026

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Introduction

Chicken Alfredo Bake is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that brings together tender chicken, rich cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked penne. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

A close-up of a baked pasta dish in a white rectangular baking dish, showing one scoop being lifted by a metallic spoon held by a woman's hand. The dish has three visible layers: a bottom layer of cooked rigatoni pasta, a middle layer of creamy white sauce mixed with cheese, and a top layer of melted, golden-brown bubbly cheese garnished with chopped green herbs. The cheese stretches in strings as it is lifted, and the white marbled textured surface beneath the baking dish adds a clean background. A green and white striped cloth is partially visible on the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 ounces penne pasta (cooked in salted water according to package directions)
3 cups diced cooked chicken
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided use)
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray
1 tablespoon parsley (chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Coat a 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray.
Step 2: Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Step 4: Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Stir in the parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of the mozzarella, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt and the sauce is smooth.
Step 6: In a large bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta and diced chicken. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 7: Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella evenly over the top.
Step 8: Bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes or until the dish is bubbly and the cheese is just starting to brown.
Step 9: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Add steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for extra veggies and texture.
Sprinkle extra parmesan right before serving for added cheesiness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350-degree oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through for even heating.

How to Serve

A white rectangular baking dish filled with baked pasta, showing three visible layers: the bottom layer has yellow pasta pieces, the middle layer is creamy white sauce with chunks of chicken, and the top layer is melted, golden-brown cheese with small green parsley sprinkles evenly spread across. The edges of the pasta stick out slightly, and the cheese has browned spots giving a crispy texture on top. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a green and white striped cloth partially shown at the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or rotini works well in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it al dente according to package instructions.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the pasta and sauce in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.