Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe

Irresistibly Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe

Creamy chicken Alfredo casserole brings comfort right to your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Pasta lovers will adore this hearty dish that combines rich, velvety sauce and tender chicken pieces.

Perfectly seasoned ingredients meld together in a delightful harmony of flavors.

Cheese lovers appreciate the golden, bubbly top that promises a delectable experience.

Weeknight meals become extraordinary with this simple yet impressive casserole.

Pasta, chicken, and Alfredo sauce create a crowd-pleasing combination you can’t resist.

Grab your baking dish and let’s make magic happen!

FAQs

  • What pasta works best for this casserole?

Fettuccine or penne are ideal because they hold sauce well and create a perfect texture in the chicken Alfredo casserole.

  • Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a time-saving option that adds great flavor and makes preparation much easier.

  • How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, add more vegetables like spinach or broccoli, and opt for a lighter Alfredo sauce or Greek yogurt-based sauce to reduce calories.

  • Is this casserole good for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake when ready to eat. It reheats well and maintains its creamy consistency.

Reasons to Try Chicken Alfredo Casserole

  • Comfort in Every Bite: Dive into a creamy, cheesy casserole that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction, perfect for those nights when you crave something hearty and delicious.
  • Quick Family Pleaser: Combine simple ingredients in minutes, creating a crowd-winning meal that keeps everyone happy and hunger at bay with minimal kitchen effort.
  • Customize Your Culinary Creation: Easily swap ingredients like adding different veggies or using leftover chicken, making this recipe flexible for whatever you have on hand and keeping mealtime exciting.
  • One-Dish Wonder: Streamline your cooking process with a single baking dish that goes from prep to table, reducing cleanup and maximizing your precious time for enjoying the meal together.

Ingredients Needed for Chicken Alfredo Casserole

Main Ingredients:
  • Pasta: A hearty base that provides texture and substance to the casserole.
  • Chicken: Protein-rich meat that adds flavor and makes the dish more filling.
  • Alfredo Sauce: Creamy white sauce that binds the ingredients and creates a rich taste.
Cheese Ingredients:
  • Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Melty cheeses that create a golden, crispy topping with a delicious savory flavor.
Complementary Ingredients:
  • Peas: Sweet green vegetable that adds color and a gentle burst of freshness.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.
  • Parsley: Optional herb that provides a bright, fresh garnish for visual appeal.

Step-by-Step for Chicken Alfredo Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a cozy 350F (175C), getting it ready for a delicious baking adventure.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Chicken Mixture

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and combine your tender cooked pasta, succulent shredded chicken, and rich Alfredo sauce.

Stir everything together until the ingredients are beautifully blended.

Step 3: Add Some Green Goodness

Toss in some sweet green peas for an extra pop of color and nutrition.

Sprinkle in salt and pepper to enhance the flavors and give your dish a perfect seasoning.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Vessel

Grab a casserole dish and give it a light coating of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Carefully pour your creamy chicken and pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Cheese It Up

Generously scatter mozzarella and Parmesan cheese across the top of the casserole.

The cheese will create a golden, crispy, and irresistibly melty layer.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes.

You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbling and turning a beautiful golden brown.

Step 7: Finish with Flair

Optional but recommended: Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and a touch of freshness.

Serve hot and enjoy your comforting meal!

Helpful Hints for Chicken Alfredo Casserole

  • Swap rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy protein boost that saves precious cooking time.
  • Add roasted garlic or sautéed onions to enhance the Alfredo sauce's depth and complexity of flavor.
  • Select whole wheat pasta to increase nutritional value and create a healthier version of this comforting dish.
  • Incorporate spinach or broccoli for extra vegetables and a vibrant green color that adds nutrition and visual appeal.
  • Use low-fat cheese options to reduce calories without compromising the creamy, indulgent texture of the casserole.

Creative Ideas for Chicken Alfredo Casserole

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Vegetarian Adaptation: Swap chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken substitute, maintaining the creamy Alfredo sauce and cheese layers.
  • Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta, reducing overall carbohydrate content while keeping the rich, cheesy flavor profile.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute Alfredo sauce with cashew cream sauce, use dairy-free cheese alternatives, and select a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tempeh.

Pairings to Complement Chicken Alfredo Casserole

  • Party Pleaser Platter: Slice the casserole into generous portions and arrange on a large serving tray with fresh herb sprigs for a stunning dinner party centerpiece.
  • Lunch Box Champion: Pack individual cool portions in meal prep containers for a delicious next-day lunch that reheats perfectly in the microwave.
  • Family-Style Comfort: Serve directly from the baking dish with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread to create a complete, satisfying meal that brings everyone together around the table.
  • Potluck Superstar: Transport the casserole in its baking dish, keeping it warm with a thick towel, for an impressive contribution to community gatherings or friend meetups.

Storing Chicken Alfredo Casserole Correctly

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Store chicken Alfredo casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the container is sealed tightly.
  • Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe


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4.7 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty chicken alfredo casserole brings comfort and flavor to dinner tables across America. Creamy pasta layers with tender chicken create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed

Pasta and Vegetables:

  • 3 cups cooked pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Cheese and Sauce:

  • 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by generously coating with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Combine tender, shredded chicken with cooked pasta in a spacious mixing vessel, ensuring even distribution.
  3. Pour rich, creamy Alfredo sauce over the chicken and pasta, gently stirring to coat every morsel thoroughly.
  4. Incorporate sweet green peas throughout the mixture, adding a burst of color and subtle texture.
  5. Season the casserole blend with a delicate balance of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance overall flavor profile.
  6. Carefully transfer the combined ingredients into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly to create a uniform layer.
  7. Liberally sprinkle a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese across the top, creating a tantalizing golden-brown crust.
  8. Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese melts completely and develops a bubbling, golden surface.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and sauce to settle.
  10. Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finishing touch before serving.

Notes

  • Swap out regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options to accommodate dietary restrictions and add extra nutrition.
  • Boost protein content by adding extra grilled chicken or swapping some chicken with lean turkey for variety.
  • For a lighter version, use low-fat Alfredo sauce and reduced-fat cheeses without compromising the creamy texture and rich flavor.
  • Incorporate additional vegetables like spinach, roasted bell peppers, or broccoli to increase nutritional value and create more complex flavor profiles.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 485 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Jess Martinez

Jess Martinez

Contributing Recipe Writer & Nutrition Consultant

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cooking, Nutritional analysis and healthy recipe planning, Cultural food traditions, Modifying traditional dishes for better health

Education

Santa Fe Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focused on mastering the flavors and cooking methods of traditional Southwestern cuisine.


Jess’s love for bold, homegrown flavors led her straight into the world of Southwestern cooking and cultural nutrition.
After completing her Certificate in Culinary Arts at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to show that good-for-you food can still taste incredible.
At saltytart.com, Jess shares vibrant, health-conscious recipes with roots in tradition but a fresh, modern twist. When she’s not testing new recipes, you’ll find her at local growers’ markets, tending her herb garden, or digging into food history books.

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