Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe

Name: Chicken Alfredo Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 cups penne pasta; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1.5 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 0.5 cup 1% milk; 0.5 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese; 1 pinch ground nutmeg; 1 cup cubed rotisserie chicken

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Penne with Chicken and Parmesan

This creamy pasta dish is a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for busy evenings. The combination of tender penne, flavorful rotisserie chicken, and a rich Parmesan sauce makes it a favorite for all ages.

Ingredients

2 cups penne pasta
1 tablespoon butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoons all-purpose flour
cup 1% milk
cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
1 pinch ground nutmeg
1 cup cubed rotisserie chicken

Directions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 11 minutes.

Step 2: While the pasta cooks, preheat your oven to 375F (190C).

Step 3: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 4: Whisk in the flour to form a paste, and cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 5: Slowly pour in the milk and cream while whisking continuously to keep the mixture smooth and lump-free.

Step 6: Stir in of the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and the pinch of ground nutmeg. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

Step 7: Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the sauce along with the cubed chicken. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 8: Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese over the top.

Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 10: Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy penne with chicken and Parmesan!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	647
Total Fat	23g (29% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	13g (65% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	67mg (22% Daily Value)
Sodium	360mg (16% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	88g (32% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	4g (14% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	4g
Protein	25g (50% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	1mg (1% Daily Value)
Calcium	307mg (24% Daily Value)
Iron	4mg (20% Daily Value)
Potassium	317mg (7% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History and Origin

Chicken Alfredo, often associated with Italian-American cuisine, originated in the early 20th century. The most famous version of the dish, however, is attributed to Alfredo di Lelio, an Italian restaurateur who created a creamy pasta dish for his pregnant wife in Rome. The dish was originally a simple combination of fettuccine, butter, and Parmesan. The addition of chicken and other ingredients, such as cream, came later as the dish evolved in America. Chicken Alfredo Bake is a modern adaptation, featuring the signature Alfredo sauce baked with pasta and chicken for a hearty and comforting meal.

Regional Differences

Though the original Alfredo dish hails from Rome, the American version has taken on a life of its own. In the U.S., it is often made with fettuccine pasta, though other pasta shapes, such as penne, are popular for variations like the Chicken Alfredo Bake. Regional differences also emerge in the use of seasonings and additionssome regions prefer extra cheese, while others might include vegetables like broccoli or spinach to add freshness and color. The Chicken Alfredo Bake recipe is particularly favored in suburban kitchens for its simplicity and ability to serve multiple people quickly.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While Chicken Alfredo Bake shares some similarities with other baked pasta dishes, such as lasagna or baked ziti, it stands out due to its rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. Traditional baked pasta dishes like lasagna are often made with marinara sauce, ground meats, or vegetables, while Chicken Alfredo Bake uses a velvety white sauce made from heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese. The use of rotisserie chicken in the bake also gives it a unique convenience factor, making it a quick and easy family dinner option.

Where It Is Typically Served

Chicken Alfredo Bake is commonly served in family homes, particularly for weeknight dinners. Its a go-to dish for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and casual dinner parties due to its ease of preparation and wide appeal. Many people also enjoy it in casual dining restaurants, especially those that specialize in comfort food or Italian-American cuisine. The dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, salads, or a side of roasted vegetables, making it a popular choice for a complete meal.

Fun Facts

In Italy, the original "Alfredo" dish is made without creamjust butter and Parmesan cheesecreating a lighter, simpler flavor profile.
The creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake can be easily customized by adding extra ingredients like mushrooms, bacon, or fresh herbs.
Some versions of Chicken Alfredo Bake even incorporate a crispy topping made from breadcrumbs or extra cheese for an added crunch.
While "Chicken Alfredo" is the most popular protein choice, variations with shrimp or sausage are also common in different parts of the U.S.
Its a great recipe to make in bulk, perfect for freezing. Leftovers can be reheated and still taste just as delicious the next day!

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FAQ about Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe

Leftover Chicken Alfredo Bake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave it covered for 2-3 minutes.

Yes, you can freeze Chicken Alfredo Bake. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes.

Yes, you can substitute penne with other types of pasta such as rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package directions before using it in the recipe.

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Yes, you can use different types of cheese. While Parmigiano-Reggiano gives the dish a distinct flavor, you can substitute it with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or a combination of Italian cheeses. Just make sure to adjust the flavor profile accordingly.

Yes, you can definitely add vegetables. Broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms are popular additions. Simply sauté or steam the vegetables before adding them to the casserole mixture.

If your dish is too dry, it could be due to the pasta absorbing too much of the sauce. You can try adding more cream or milk to the sauce before baking. If you already baked it, you can add a little more sauce or even some chicken broth when reheating to help restore moisture.

If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a pinch of hot sauce to the sauce. You can also experiment with adding spicy Italian sausage or jalapeños.

Chicken Alfredo Bake pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli for added nutrition.

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Simply cook and cube the chicken before adding it to the dish. If you're using pre-cooked frozen chicken, make sure to thoroughly thaw and heat it before incorporating it into the casserole.

Comments

Richard Taylor

06/15/2023 12:45:39 PM

My family thoroughly enjoyed this dish. Even my most selective eater went back for seconds. I would recommend adding salt and pepper, and doubling the amount of sauce. We found that it turned out slightly drier than preferred, as the noodles absorbed most of the delicious sauce. I used cooked frozen chicken breasts for this recipe.

Laura Davis

11/21/2022 03:02:59 AM

I tried out this recipe today using some leftover grilled chicken. It was a breeze to whip up, and I followed the instructions exactly, adding some broccoli as well. My family devoured it and there wasn't a single bite left. I'll definitely be making this dish again - it's delicious, quick, and simple to put together. Thank you!

Larry Sanchez

06/23/2023 08:04:24 AM

So simple! This is the perfect choice for a tasty dinner. My friend who is a hippy biker devoured three massive servings. Looks like I'll be making loads of this for future events!

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