Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Chicken Alfredo Casserole transforms the beloved pasta dish into a convenient, family-friendly baked meal. This casserole combines tender chicken, pasta, and vegetables in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, topped with melted cheese for a golden finish. The dish maintains all the comforting flavors of traditional Alfredo while offering the practicality of a make-ahead option. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of creamy sauce, protein, and pasta.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta or similar shape
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese plus ¼ cup for topping
- 1.5 teaspoons salt divided
- ¾ teaspoon black pepper divided
- 2 cups vegetables such as broccoli florets, spinach, or diced bell peppers
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, reducing cooking time by 2 minutes. Drain well.
- Season chicken with 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken pieces for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add flour to the butter mixture, whisking constantly for 1 minute.
- Slowly pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking continuously. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in 1.5 cups Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
- Combine pasta, chicken, sauce, and vegetables in a large bowl.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and remaining Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for 10-15 additional minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.