This creamy, cheesy Chicken Alfredo Casserole combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and pasta, baked to golden perfection.
It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy the whole family, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and cozy weekend meals.
Chicken Alfredo Casserole
This casserole is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy dish filled with tender chicken and pasta. It’s indulgent yet simple to make, and you can prep it in advance for those busy nights. The crispy, golden cheese topping adds the perfect finishing touch, making this dish an instant favorite.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken
- 2 cups rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cooking the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, stopping 1-2 minutes before the recommended cooking time. Drain and set aside.
- Making the Alfredo Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux. Slowly add the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cream cheese, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Assembling the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Mix well, making sure the pasta and chicken are evenly coated.
- Baking the Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Garnishing and Serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Chicken Alfredo Casserole: Tips & Serving Tricks
Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy dish that combines tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, pasta, and a crispy, golden topping. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, here are some essential tips and serving tricks to make your casserole perfect.Tips for the Best Chicken Alfredo Casserole
- Use High-Quality Alfredo Sauce
- A homemade Alfredo sauce made with butter, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese provides the best flavor.
- If using store-bought sauce, enhance it with extra garlic, Parmesan, or Italian seasoning for a richer taste.
- Choose the Right Pasta
- Short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni holds the sauce well.
- Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when baked.
- Pre-Cook and Season the Chicken
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook and shred boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs before mixing it into the casserole for extra flavor.
- Layering for a Creamier Casserole
- Mix half of the cheese into the pasta before baking to ensure a creamy texture.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top to create a crispy, golden-brown crust.
- Enhance the Texture with a Crunchy Topping
- A topping of breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and Parmesan adds a delightful crunch.
- Crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs work well for added texture.
- Avoid a Dry Casserole
- Add a little reserved pasta water or extra cream to keep the casserole from drying out.
- Cover with foil for the first half of baking, then uncover to let the top crisp up.
- Include Vegetables for Extra Flavor and Nutrition
- Broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes add color and balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
- Sauté the vegetables lightly before adding them to prevent excess moisture.
- Make It Ahead for Convenience
- Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- If freezing, use an aluminum pan and let the casserole thaw in the fridge before baking.
Serving Tricks for Maximum Enjoyment
- Garnish for a Restaurant-Style Presentation
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color.
- A light dusting of Parmesan cheese adds a final savory touch.
- Serve with the Right Side Dishes
- A crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread complements the rich casserole.
- Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans balance the meal.
- Portioning for Different Occasions
- Serve in small ramekins for individual portions at gatherings.
- Use a large baking dish for family-style serving.
- Pair with the Right Drink
- White wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio enhances the creamy sauce.
- Lemon-infused water or sparkling cider works well for a non-alcoholic option.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions:
This Chicken Alfredo Casserole pairs wonderfully with:- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect complement to this creamy dish.
- Side Salad: A fresh Caesar or mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or carrots make a tasty and healthy side.
