Cheese Chicken Alfredo Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Cheesy: A rich blend of Alfredo sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a luscious, comforting dish.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with tender chicken and pasta, it’s a filling meal that pleases both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Easily prepared in advance, making it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients

• 16 ounces penne or elbow macaroni
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
• 22 ounces Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 8 ounces sour cream
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
3. Prepare Mixture: In a large bowl, combine Alfredo sauce, sour cream, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, cooked chicken, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
4. Combine with Pasta: Fold the cooked pasta into the sauce mixture until evenly coated.
5. Assemble: Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with one cup of mozzarella cheese. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. For a crispier top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 8 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with roasted vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.
2. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce mixture for a spicy twist.
3. Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with cooked shrimp or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
4. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the Alfredo sauce is gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
5. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the sauce for added freshness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through. For larger portions, cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated thoroughly.
• Freezing: To freeze, assemble the bake without baking, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this bake?

Penne and elbow macaroni are ideal due to their ability to hold sauce, but other short pasta like rigatoni or ziti can also be used.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, store-bought Alfredo sauce is convenient and works well, but homemade Alfredo sauce can provide a richer flavor.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

Assemble the bake up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely, by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free, you can make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream can be used as substitutes for ricotta cheese.

How do I prevent the bake from becoming dry?

Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente and adequately coated with sauce. Covering the dish with foil during the first half of baking can also help retain moisture.

What side dishes pair well with this bake?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement this rich dish nicely.

Can I add vegetables to this bake?

Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli can enhance the flavor and nutritional value.

How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat in the oven covered with foil to retain moisture, or microwave individual portions with a damp paper towel

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