Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, you’ve got to try this Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender chicken pieces mingling with perfectly cooked penne pasta, all crowned with a golden layer of mozzarella that melts to perfection. This dish brings together the rich indulgence of Alfredo sauce with the homely comfort of a pasta bake, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Every forkful delivers that luscious Alfredo goodness balanced by juicy chicken goodness, ensuring you’ll be reaching for seconds without a second thought.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake. What’s wonderful here is how each ingredient plays a crucial role — from the creamy texture of the heavy cream to the sharp saltiness of the parmesan and the melty magic of mozzarella. Together, they promise a harmonious dish with the perfect blend of richness, flavor, and color.
- 250g penne pasta: Choose penne for its fantastic ridges that hold the creamy sauce well.
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, cubed: Juicy protein that adds hearty substance to the bake.
- 2 Tbsp butter: Gives the sauce a silky base and deepens flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic warmth and enhances the savory depth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The key to that smooth, luscious Alfredo sauce everyone loves.
- ¾ cup parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, it melts into the sauce for richness and tang.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese: Melts golden and gooey on top, creating a delicious crust.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 Tbsp parsley, chopped: Freshness and a pop of color to finish the dish right.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) because everything comes together quickly once the sauce is ready. Boil the penne pasta until it’s just al dente — you want it to hold its shape after baking without becoming mushy. If you haven’t cooked your chicken in advance, make sure it’s diced into bite-sized cubes so it blends beautifully throughout the bake.
Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a warm skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and toss in the minced garlic. Let it sizzle gently until fragrant; this step infuses the butter with garlic’s rich aroma. Pour in the heavy cream and allow it to simmer for about three minutes, thickening slightly and marrying those flavors. Gradually stir in the parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is silky smooth and rich. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper — it’s these little touches that make the sauce sing.
Step 3: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Now the fun part: toss your al dente penne and the cubed chicken right into the creamy Alfredo sauce. Stir everything so the sauce coats every piece with velvety goodness. This mix will be the foundation of your bake, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor and indulgence.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Transfer your saucy chicken pasta to a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the mozzarella generously across the top. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. You’re aiming for a bubbly surface that turns a gorgeous golden brown, sealing in the creaminess beneath and adding a delightful stretchiness to each serving.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, scatter freshly chopped parsley over the top. This little pop of green adds freshness and invites you to dig right in. Your Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake is now ready to be enjoyed — creamy, cheesy, and deeply comforting.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish for this dish, adding a subtle herbal brightness that contrasts the rich sauce beautifully. If you want a little heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes works wonderfully too. Try a small drizzle of good quality olive oil or a dash of lemon zest to elevate the flavors even further.
Side Dishes
Because the Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake is creamy and filling, lighter sides complement it best. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed seasonal veggies can add much-needed freshness. Garlic bread or a simple baguette is great if you want to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, consider serving the Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake in individual ramekins or small baking dishes for a personalized touch. Adding a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan on top before baking can introduce a pleasing crunch. You can also layer with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra depth and color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld even more after sitting, making for a delicious next-day meal. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Portion the bake into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire dish tightly in foil with plastic wrap. Freeze for up to two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 15-20 minutes covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave smaller portions, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce feels too thick during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for the Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake?
Absolutely! While penne works excellently because of its shape and ridges, you can use rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when baked.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli to bulk up the bake. The creamy Alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with veggies as well.
How can I lighten this dish?
To make a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of cornstarch to thicken. Using less cheese or lower-fat varieties helps too, though it won’t be quite as indulgent.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?
Definitely! Assemble the pasta, sauce, and chicken in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled straight from the fridge.
What wine pairs well with Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake?
Creamy dishes like this pair wonderfully with crisp, white wines such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. Their acidity cuts through the richness and refreshes your palate with every bite.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake is a true classic in my kitchen and one I’m thrilled to share with you. It has that perfect balance of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and deliciously baked pasta that feels both comforting and special. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple. Give it a try and watch it disappear from the plate with happy smiles all around.
