Chicken Alfredo Bake
Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Alfredo Bake is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful bacon, and creamy Alfredo sauce, all mixed with pasta and topped with melty cheese. It’s a perfect meal for families or gatherings. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also brings everyone together with its rich flavors. You can enjoy it straight from the oven, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Bake
Ingredients:
- 3 cups rotini pasta (cooked)
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 3 rashers bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
- 100 g mushrooms, chopped
- Olive oil
- Alfredo Sauce:
- 125 g butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 200 ml cream
- 200 ml milk
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar
- Salt
- Black pepper
Directions:
- Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a pan, heat a bit of olive oil. Add the chopped bacon and onion. Cook until the onion softens, and the bacon does not need to be crispy.
- Add the chicken chunks to the pan and brown them on all sides. Add the grated garlic to the mix.
- Stir in the chopped mushrooms and the cooked pasta. Season with salt and black pepper.
- To make the Alfredo sauce, melt the butter in a separate pan. Add the flour and stir until there is no raw flour left.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream to create a thick sauce.
- Add the shredded parmesan and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Toss 3/4 of the sauce with the pasta mixture until well combined.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Pour the remaining sauce on top and cover with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until bubbly. Optionally, turn on the grill for a few minutes to create charred edges on top.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Bake
Serve Chicken Alfredo Bake hot from the oven. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You can also add some extra parsley on top for a fresh touch. This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed by everyone.
How to Store Chicken Alfredo Bake
To store leftover Chicken Alfredo Bake, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should be eaten within 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Chicken Alfredo Bake
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the sauce or the chicken mixture.
Variation
You can easily make Chicken Alfredo Bake with different types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli. Also, if you prefer a lighter version, use grilled chicken instead of bacon or replace the cream with a lighter milk alternative.
FAQs
1. Can I make Chicken Alfredo Bake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to eat.
2. Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Bake?
Yes, you can freeze it, but it’s best to do so before baking. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
3. What can I serve with Chicken Alfredo Bake?
This dish goes well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
