Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that combines tender pasta with rich Alfredo sauce, juicy chicken, and a golden cheese topping. It's perfect for a hearty family dinner and a great way to use leftover chicken. Follow these directions to create a delicious meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded (leftover rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 jar (15 oz) of your favorite Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- Cooking spray for greasing the baking dish
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients In the pot with the drained pasta, add the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, whole milk, sour cream, half of the mozzarella cheese (¾ cup), half of the Parmesan cheese (½ cup), garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and dried parsley flakes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake Transfer the pasta mixture to the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta mixture.
Step 5: Bake Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges begin to turn golden brown.
Step 6: Serve Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley flakes if desired.
Cooking Note:
- If the top begins to brown too quickly, you can cover the dish with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent it from burning.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a light, crisp beer.
Tips:
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the pasta mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers the next day.
- Cheese Variation: Experiment with different cheeses for the topping, such as a blend of Italian cheeses, for a different flavor profile.
Prep Time:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Conclusion
Chicken Alfredo Penne Bake is a versatile and satisfying dish that's sure to become a favorite. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and cheesy topping, it's a comforting meal that's perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy the process of creating this delightful dish and the pleasure of sharing it with your loved ones.
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