Cheesy Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Cheesy Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta: A Comforting Classic

Cheesy Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent dish that brings together tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich Alfredo sauce. This dish is baked to perfection, with a golden, bubbling cheese topping that makes it impossible to resist. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish is sure to be a hit.

The combination of grilled chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety homemade Alfredo sauce makes this baked pasta a comforting classic. Topped with a layer of melted cheese, it’s the ultimate cheesy goodness everyone loves. It’s perfect for those cozy nights when you want something warm and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta (or any pasta of your choice)

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for the sauce and topping)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)

For Topping:

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
4. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese and 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the Alfredo sauce. Stir until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
2. Add the sliced chicken into the pasta and sauce mixture, making sure it’s evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

1. Transfer the pasta, chicken, and sauce mixture into a greased baking dish (9×13 inch or similar size).
2. Top the pasta with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
3. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, cheesy Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta!

Tips for a Perfect Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta

• Grilled chicken: For an extra smoky flavor, try grilling the chicken breasts instead of pan-searing them.
• Add vegetables: You can add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms to the pasta for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce.
• Use fresh Parmesan: Grate your own Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese can sometimes be too dry and less flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Cheesy: The rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, paired with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, is the ultimate comfort food.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in less than 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Customizable: You can easily add vegetables or swap the chicken for another protein, such as shrimp or sausage.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family, as it’s both delicious and satisfying.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect combination of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta. With its golden, melted cheese topping, it’s an easy-to-make dish that feels indulgent and special. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering, this pasta dish will be a crowd favorite that everyone will love. Enjoy!