This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole is the perfect comfort food for any night of the week. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with tender chicken, pasta, and a delicious Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this easy casserole is sure to be a hit at the table.
History of Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Chicken Alfredo originated as a pasta dish made famous in Italy, featuring fettuccine, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Over time, it became a beloved dish in America, with creamy sauces and chicken as popular additions. The casserole version was created as an easy, make-ahead alternative for busy families who love the classic flavors.
Why Chicken Alfredo Casserole?
- Simple to Make: Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Family Favorite: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying.
- One-Dish Meal: Everything cooks together for less cleanup.
- Customizable: Add vegetables or adjust ingredients to your liking.
What is Chicken Alfredo Casserole Made of?
This casserole typically includes:
- Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
- Cooked, shredded chicken
- Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
- Optional add-ins like spinach or broccoli
What to Have with Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Pair this casserole with:
- A crisp Caesar salad or a mixed green salad
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
- Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or zucchini
Is Chicken Alfredo Casserole Healthy?
Chicken Alfredo Casserole can be high in calories and fat due to the creamy sauce and cheese. To make it healthier, use whole-grain pasta, light Alfredo sauce, and reduce the amount of cheese. Adding vegetables can also increase the nutritional value.
Kitchen Equipment
- Large baking dish (9×13 recommended)
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 cup steamed broccoli or spinach
Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Mix Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Add cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach to make the dish more nutritious.
- If using store-bought Alfredo sauce, choose a high-quality brand for better flavor.
- For extra creaminess, mix in a dollop of cream cheese before baking.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole is an easy, delicious dish that brings the comforting flavors of classic Alfredo pasta into a family-friendly bake. It’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions and is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe
This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole is the perfect comfort food for any night of the week. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with tender chicken, pasta, and a delicious Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this easy casserole is sure to be a hit at the table.
-
Large baking dish (9×13 recommended)
-
Large pot for cooking pasta
-
Mixing bowl
-
Measuring cups and spoons
-
Whisk or spoon for mixing
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 cup steamed broccoli or spinach
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly coated.
-
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
-
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
-
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.