Chicken Alfredo Casserole

If you’ve ever craved a dinner that feels like a warm hug after a long day, this Chicken Alfredo Casserole is exactly what you need. Tender chunks of seasoned chicken nestled among perfectly cooked penne pasta swim in a luxuriously creamy Alfredo sauce, all crowned with a bubbly blanket of golden mozzarella. Every spoonful delivers a delightful contrast of textures: the slight bite of pasta, the succulence of chicken, and the velvety richness of the sauce. I still remember the first time I whipped up this dish for my family—how the whole house buzzed with excitement as it baked, and the way my husband’s eyes lit up after that first cheesy stretch. It quickly earned a spot in our weekly rotation, proving that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.

Beyond the sheer decadence, what makes this casserole a winner is its ease. Even if you’re new to the kitchen, the steps are straightforward, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. You can prep most of the components ahead of time (perfect for busy weeknights), then just pop everything under the broiler when you’re ready to serve. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this dish satisfies on every level. By the time you’re halfway through your plate, you’ll find yourself planning when to make it again—and maybe experimenting by sneaking in a handful of fresh spinach or tender broccoli florets for a green twist.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHICKEN ALFREDO CASSEROLE

Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients, and this Chicken Alfredo Casserole is no exception. Each component plays a specific role, ensuring you end up with a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that feel homey and elegant at the same time. From the protein-packed chicken to the creamy sauce elements and that irresistible cheesy topping, here’s why each item matters.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Provides tender, lean protein that absorbs the flavors of the seasonings and sauce, keeping each bite juicy without excess fat.

• Salt and pepper

Simple seasonings that enhance the natural taste of the chicken and balance the richness of the creamy sauce.

• Olive oil

Used for browning the chicken, it adds a subtle fruitiness and prevents sticking, ensuring a beautiful golden crust.

• Penne pasta

Its ridges and tube shape grab onto every drop of sauce, so you get that perfect ratio of pasta to creamy goodness.

• Heavy cream

The backbone of the rich Alfredo sauce, it creates a silky texture and mouthfeel that makes this casserole truly decadent.

• Parmesan cheese

Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce as it melts, giving your dish that signature Alfredo taste.

• Garlic powder

Infuses a mellow garlic aroma without overpowering the other flavors, distributing evenly throughout the sauce.

• Onion powder

Contributes a sweet, savory depth that complements the garlic and cheese, rounding out the sauce’s profile.

• Crushed red pepper flakes

A dash of heat that awakens the palate and keeps the casserole from feeling too heavy or one-dimensional.

• Chicken broth

Thins the sauce slightly for easy mixing and adds a subtle savory base, boosting flavor with every spoonful.

• Shredded mozzarella cheese

Creates a golden, bubbly crust, offering that gooey, stretchy texture we all love in comfort food.

• Fresh parsley

A bright garnish that adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to cut through the richness.

HOW TO MAKE CHICKEN ALFREDO CASSEROLE

These step-by-step instructions will guide you through creating a casserole that looks as good as it tastes. With straightforward techniques and minimal fuss, you’ll have a dish that’s both comforting and impressive on the table.

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking so the cheese melts perfectly without drying out the casserole.

2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, coating them evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.

3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and cook the chicken until each piece is golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside to keep it juicy.

4. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain well and set aside.

5. Using the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Add Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.

6. Stir in the chicken broth and let the sauce simmer for an additional 3 minutes to blend and thicken.

7. Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and Alfredo sauce in a large mixing bowl. Toss gently to ensure every piece of pasta and chicken is coated in the creamy sauce.

8. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese in a uniform layer.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, signaling a perfectly melted, slightly crisp top.

10. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly (about 5–10 minutes) before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add a burst of color and freshness.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHICKEN ALFREDO CASSEROLE

Once you’ve mastered the casserole itself, showcasing it alongside complementary dishes can elevate your meal from homey to restaurant-worthy. Below are four tasty ideas to complete your dinner spread, each adding contrasting textures, flavors, and colors to balance the richness of the Alfredo.

• Fresh Green Salad

A crisp salad of mixed greens, cucumber ribbons, and cherry tomatoes dressed in a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness and cleanses the palate.

• Garlic Bread

Warm slices of toasted garlic bread with a hint of parsley make the perfect sidekick, allowing you to mop up any leftover sauce. Brush with olive oil or butter mixed with minced garlic, then toast until golden.

• Roasted Vegetables

Bite-sized pieces of seasonal vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini, roasted in olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, bring color and nutrients to your plate. Their caramelized edges add a sweet-savory element.

• Light White Wine

A glass of crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the mild, creamy flavors of this casserole. The wine’s bright acidity and fruit notes complement the cheese and chicken without overpowering them.

HOW TO STORE CHICKEN ALFREDO CASSEROLE

Storing your leftovers properly will keep this comforting dish tasting fresh and just as delightful the next day. Follow these guidelines to maintain its creamy texture and robust flavors, so you can enjoy it again without the casserole turning soggy or bland.

• Refrigeration

Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through.

• Airtight Containers

For best results, portion out the casserole into airtight containers. This minimizes air exposure, preserving moisture and preventing the top from becoming rubbery.

• Freezing

If you want to save it beyond a few days, freeze the cooled casserole in a freezer-safe dish or wrap the baking dish tightly in foil, then a layer of plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Gentle Reheating

To revive the creamy texture, reheat in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent excessive browning. Remove the foil in the last few minutes if you want the cheese to crisp back up.

CONCLUSION

Bringing this Chicken Alfredo Casserole to your table means serving more than just a meal—it’s an invitation to slow down, savor simple ingredients, and share cozy moments with loved ones. We’ve walked through the ingredients that make every bite luscious, the step-by-step instructions to cook and bake to golden perfection, and tasty sides that accentuate the casserole’s rich flavors. Plus, you’ve got all the tips you need to store leftovers without losing that fresh, creamy quality. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or prepping for a potluck, this dish is as reliable as it is indulgent, making it a go-to recipe you can revisit again and again.

Feel free to print this article or save it for later use—bookmark it, slip it into your recipe binder, or share it with friends who need a comforting, fuss-free dinner idea. There’s even a handy FAQ section below where we’ve addressed common questions about substitutions, make-ahead tricks, and reheating methods. If you give this Chicken Alfredo Casserole a try, I’d love to hear how it went! Your comments, questions, and feedback help me tweak and improve the recipe, and they might just inspire the next home-cooked creation we explore together. Happy cooking!

Print Recipe

Chicken Alfredo Casserole

Author: Marcus Stone Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 30 mins Rest Time 10 mins Total Time 1 hr

Calories: 550

Description

This Chicken Alfredo Casserole features tender chicken and al dente pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce topped with bubbling mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 pound penne pasta

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon onion powder

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In the same skillet used for the chicken, pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer on medium heat. Add Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Stir in chicken broth and let it simmer for an additional 3 minutes.
7. Combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, and Alfredo sauce in a large mixing bowl. Mix well to ensure everything is coated in the sauce.
8. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Note

• Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
• This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
• Leftovers reheat well, making for a quick and delicious meal the next day.
• Consider using leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken for added flavor.

Keywords: chicken alfredo, casserole, creamy pasta, comfort food, easy recipe, dinner