Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a comforting, creamy, and utterly satisfying dinner that brings the whole family running to the table, then this Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken layered over tender penne pasta, all smothered in a rich, homemade Alfredo sauce finished with a blanket of golden, melted mozzarella. Every bite is a heartwarming hug of cheesy, savory goodness, perfectly balanced with the ideal textures and flavors that will make you want seconds (and thirds). Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a special gathering, this dish delivers comfort with flair.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is deceptively simple, using straightforward ingredients that combine to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each component plays its part, from the crunchy crust on the chicken to the silky smooth Alfredo sauce that ties everything together.

• 1.5 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breast: Tender, lean protein that forms the star of this bake.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour, divided: Helps create the perfect coating for the chicken to crisp up beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances every flavor layer in the dish.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to balance the richness.
• ¾ cup Italian panko bread crumbs: Provides a light, crispy texture on the chicken crust.
• 2 oz. grated Parmesan cheese (~⅓ cup): Infuses the breading with savory, nutty notes.
• 3 large eggs: Acts as a sticky binder for the breading on the chicken.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: For perfectly golden chicken cooked to crispy perfection.
• 16 oz. penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and cheese.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Adds richness to the Alfredo sauce and base flavors.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Balances the butter and adds depth to the sauce.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Creates the velvety roux for the sauce.
• 6 garlic cloves, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and a punch of flavor.
• 2 cups 2% milk: Lightens the sauce while keeping it creamy.
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream: The secret weapon for that luxurious, silky Alfredo texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sauce perfectly.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg: A classic Alfredo touch that brightens the sauce with warm spice.
• 5 oz. grated Parmesan cheese (~1.25 cups): Builds the backbone of the creamy sauce’s incredible flavor.
• 4 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese (~1 cup): Provides gooey, melty topping that finishes the bake beautifully.

How to Make Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Bread the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 350℉ and greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. While the oven warms up, halve the chicken breasts lengthwise and gently pound them to an even thickness, about ¼ inch, so they cook evenly and stay tender. This simple step transforms the chicken into a thin, crispy delight once breaded and cooked.

Step 2: Create the Breading Stations

Set up three separate “stations” for breading: one with a quarter cup of flour, another with the rest of the flour mixed with panko, Parmesan, salt, and black pepper, and a bowl with whisked eggs. Dredge each piece of chicken first in flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture. These layers form the irresistible crust that will bake into crispy, flavorful perfection.

Step 3: Crunchy Chicken Cooking

Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet until fragrant and hot. Place 3 to 4 pieces of breaded chicken in the pan and cook for 3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF. Cooking them in batches ensures each piece gets that perfect golden crust without crowding the pan. Set the cooked chicken aside and slice them into half-inch pieces once slightly cooled.

Step 4: Perfectly Cook the Penne

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your penne pasta for about 9 minutes, leaving it just shy of al dente. This undercooking means the pasta will finish cooking in the oven, absorbing those beautiful sauce flavors without becoming mushy. Drain and return the pasta to the pot, ready to meet its creamy destiny.

Step 5: Craft the Creamy Alfredo Sauce

Over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter with olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for a minute or two until fragrant and golden. Add the remaining butter and stir in the flour to create a roux. After a minute, gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, lowering the heat as the sauce begins to thicken. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg, and then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. This sauce is the luscious magic that ties the entire bake together.

Step 6: Combine and Bake

Pour the creamy Alfredo sauce over the cooked pasta and fold in the sliced chicken, making sure every bite is coated with indulgent sauce. Transfer this mixture into your prepared casserole dish and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the top. Pop it in the oven and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set. This is the moment your kitchen will smell like pure comfort.

How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe

Garnishes

Sometimes a little fresh touch elevates a hearty dish, so sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the top for a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the rich flavors. A few extra shavings of Parmesan cheese add an elegant finishing touch without overpowering the creamy goodness underneath.

Side Dishes

The beauty of this Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe is it stands strong on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette for contrast. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus work beautifully too, providing that welcomed crunch and earthiness alongside all the creaminess.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this bake in individual ramekins for personal, fuss-free portions that look impressive. Alternatively, swirl extra pesto into the Alfredo sauce before baking to add a pop of vibrant color and a fresh basil punch. Make it yours by adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes into the mix for layers of flavor complexity that will delight your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe reheats beautifully. After it cools, cover your casserole tightly with foil or transfer portions into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld further overnight, making leftovers just as enjoyable as freshly made.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this bake freezes well before baking. Assemble everything in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed, adding some extra minutes if needed for thorough heating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the bake with foil to prevent drying out and warm in a preheated oven at 350℉ for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals, though a slow bake keeps the sauce creamy and the crust crispy.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of penne?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the sauce, other sturdy pastas like rigatoni, fusilli, or ziti also work wonderfully and provide the same satisfying texture.

Is it necessary to pound the chicken thin?

Yes, pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and creates that fantastic crispy crust texture without drying out the chicken inside. Plus, it slices up nicely in the bake.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

You sure can. Make the sauce, cool it completely, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Rewarm gently when ready to assemble your bake—just give it a good stir to bring back that silky consistency.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based options like almond milk and vegan Parmesan cheeses, and use olive oil or dairy-free butter alternatives. Keep in mind the texture and richness will vary, but it’s a tasty alternative.

What is the best way to get a crispy top on the bake?

Bringing the bake to the last few minutes of cooking under the broiler (watch carefully!) or adding an extra layer of Parmesan on top before baking can result in an extra crispy and golden crust that’s downright irresistible.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting and celebratory about this Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe that it quickly becomes a treasured favorite. It’s creamy, cheesy, crispy, and satisfying all at once—a true crowd-pleaser perfect for sharing with family and friends. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it keeps making appearances on weeknight tables and special occasions alike. Trust me, this is one dish you’ll want to make again and again.

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