Baked Chicken Alfredo

Name: Baked Chicken Alfredo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/2 stick butter softened for greasing dish; 1 pound pasta, such as Taccole or your favorite short pasta; 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded; 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley leaves finely chopped; ALFREDO SAUCE:; 4 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 12 oz. cans evaporated milk; 2 cups heavy cream; 3 cloves garlic, grated; 1 1/2 cups fontina, shredded; 1 cup fresh mozzarella, shredded; 3/4 cup mozzarella, block style, shredded; 3/4 cup parmesan, grated

By funsmagcom@gmail.com

June 26, 2024

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382

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Baked Chicken Alfredo

Introduction

If you’re looking for a comfort food that combines rich, creamy sauce with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, then Baked Chicken Alfredo is the dish for you. This recipe takes the classic Alfredo pasta and elevates it by baking it to perfection, resulting in a cheesy, bubbly masterpiece. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also simple to make at home, making it a great choice for family dinners or special occasions.

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Preparation Steps

Prepping the Chicken

Begin by cooking your chicken. You can either grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken breasts until they are cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, shred or cube the chicken and set it aside.

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Making the Alfredo Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux. Gradually add the heavy cream and milk, whisking until smooth and slightly thickened. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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Combining the Pasta and Chicken

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and return the pasta to the pot. Add the shredded or cubed chicken and the prepared Alfredo sauce. Stir until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking the Chicken

If you haven’t already cooked your chicken, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding or cubing it.

Preparing the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Making the Alfredo Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk to combine. Gradually add the heavy cream and milk, whisking until smooth and slightly thickened. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Dish

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Mix until everything is well coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Baking the Dish

Preheating the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Baking Time and Temperature

Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Checking for Doneness

The Baked Chicken Alfredo is done when the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions

Baked Chicken Alfredo is best served hot and fresh from the oven. Pair it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped parsley or additional Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.

Variations of Baked Chicken Alfredo

Vegetarian Options

For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add more vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini.

Adding Vegetables

Incorporate vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or peas into the dish for added nutrition and flavor.

Using Different Types of Pasta

Feel free to use different types of pasta such as penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used as healthier alternatives.

Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken Alfredo

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Also, be careful not to burn the garlic when making the sauce, as it can turn bitter.

Tips for a Creamy Sauce

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a bit more milk or chicken broth.

Storing and Reheating

Best Practices for Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Health Considerations

Nutritional Information

Baked Chicken Alfredo is rich in protein and calcium but also high in calories and fat due to the cheese and cream. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Healthier Alternatives

For a healthier version, use whole wheat pasta and substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative such as evaporated milk or a low-fat cream. You can also reduce the amount of cheese used.

Alfredo Dishes in Different Cultures

How Other Cultures Enjoy Creamy Pasta Dishes

While Alfredo dishes are traditionally Italian, many cultures have their own versions of creamy pasta dishes. In France, you might find creamy carbonara, and in the United States, mac and cheese is a popular comfort food.

Similar Recipes Around the World

Explore other similar recipes like fettuccine Alfredo, which is simply pasta tossed in a rich and creamy sauce, or chicken tetrazzini, a baked pasta dish with chicken, mushrooms, and a creamy white sauce.

Fun Facts About Alfredo Dishes

Alfredo sauce was invented by Alfredo di Lelio in Rome in the early 20th century.
The original Alfredo sauce consisted only of butter, Parmesan cheese, and pasta water.
Baked Alfredo dishes have become popular in the United States, combining the richness of Alfredo sauce with the convenience of a baked casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce? Yes, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce for convenience. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand.
Can I freeze Baked Chicken Alfredo? Yes, you can freeze the dish before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt as substitutes for heavy cream.
Can I make Baked Chicken Alfredo ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
How can I make the dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour in the sauce with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Alfredo is a delightful and satisfying dish that brings together the best of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of homemade Baked Chicken Alfredo!

Yield: 6