Creamy Garlic Chicken Alfredo Bake -

The Creamy Garlic Chicken Alfredo Bake is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With tender chicken, a luscious creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that leaves everyone asking for seconds. This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, making it suitable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This dish is a crowd-pleaser, featuring a creamy garlic sauce that envelops tender pieces of chicken and al dente penne pasta. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 40 minutes, you can serve this satisfying dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of cream, cheese, and garlic makes this bake irresistibly comforting.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
Perfect for Meal Prepping: This recipe easily doubles or triples, and leftovers reheat beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to whip up your Creamy Garlic Chicken Alfredo Bake:

2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
10 ounces penne pasta, cooked al dente
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your oven is hot enough to create a bubbly, golden top for your bake.

Step 2: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, cooking for about 1 minute. This will help thicken the sauce. Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream to create your base sauce. Stir continuously and cook for around 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens.

Step 4: Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Season with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix until the cheeses are melted and well incorporated.

Step 5: Add the 10 ounces of cooked penne pasta and 2 cups of shredded chicken to the sauce mixture. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the dish.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. This step creates that perfect, slightly crispy texture.

Step 8: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for penne pasta, you can substitute it with any pasta type you prefer, such as fusilli, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta.

How can I make this dish healthier?

You can replace heavy cream with a lighter option like half-and-half or a milk-based alternative. Additionally, consider adding more vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly and remove it from the fridge to come to room temperature before baking.

What should I serve with this dish?

This creamy bake pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread to balance the richness of the meal.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven until heated through.

Conclusion

The Creamy Garlic Chicken Alfredo Bake is a simple yet delectable dish that brings comfort to any dining table. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and savory cheese, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your household. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this bake delivers on flavor and satisfaction. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to impress your family and friends!