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One-Pan Chicken Alfredo Bake

one-pan chicken Alfredo bake - featured image

A creamy, garlicky one-pan chicken Alfredo bake that combines tender chicken, pasta, and a homemade Alfredo sauce for an easy, comforting dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 12 oz uncooked penne pasta
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 cup water or chicken broth (for baking liquid)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. In an oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Sprinkle flour over the butter and garlic, whisking constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking continuously.
  6. Slowly add milk while whisking vigorously. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until sauce thickens.
  7. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Whisk until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
  8. Add uncooked penne pasta to the sauce and stir to coat. Pour in 1 cup of water or chicken broth.
  9. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and mix evenly.
  10. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  11. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until pasta is tender and cheese is bubbly and golden.
  12. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

If sauce thickens too much before baking, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen. Stir halfway through baking for even creaminess. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting. Resting after baking lets flavors meld. For gluten-free, substitute flour and pasta with gluten-free versions. Chicken thighs can be used for juicier meat. Vegetarian and dairy-free variations are possible.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken alfredo, one-pan dinner, creamy pasta bake, easy dinner, comfort food, baked chicken pasta