Craving a dish that’s both comforting and delicious? Look no further than this Chicken Alfredo Casserole recipe! This creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish is a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, this hearty casserole is guaranteed to please everyone. Keep reading to learn how to make the ultimate Chicken Alfredo Casserole, including ingredients, substitutions, and step-by-step instructions!
What is Chicken Alfredo Casserole?
Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a twist on the classic Italian pasta dish, Chicken Alfredo. In this version, tender pasta is baked with juicy chicken and rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, then topped with melted cheese for a bubbly, golden finish. It's the perfect way to elevate a simple pasta dish into a satisfying, oven-baked meal that feeds a crowd. Combining all the traditional flavors of Alfredo with the convenience of a casserole, this recipe is a go-to for family dinners and potlucks alike.
Ingredients List for Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Here are the key ingredients you will need for this delicious Chicken Alfredo Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine): Any type of pasta can be used, but penne or fettuccine are most common.
- 2 cups heavy cream: The base of your Alfredo sauce for a rich, creamy texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds the signature cheesy flavor Alfredo is known for.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For a bubbly, melty topping.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Helps create the Alfredo sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to cook the chicken or add to the pasta to prevent sticking.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: For added flavor depth.
Substitutions and Variations for Chicken Alfredo Casserole
One of the best parts of making Chicken Alfredo Casserole is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe based on your personal preferences or dietary needs. Here are some common substitutions and variations:
- Chicken: If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can use turkey, shrimp, or even ground beef.
- Pasta: Gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta can be used as alternatives.
- Dairy-Free Version: Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cheeses to make this dish lactose-intolerant friendly.
- Add Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms make excellent additions to sneak in some veggies.
- Lower Fat: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half and reduce the amount of cheese used.
- Extra Protein: Mix in cooked bacon or sausage for extra flavor and protein.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Chicken Alfredo Casserole

Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to prepare your Chicken Alfredo Casserole. Follow these easy steps to get it perfect every time.
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Slowly stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Combine chicken and pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken and the drained pasta. Pour the Alfredo sauce over the mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While Chicken Alfredo Casserole is easy to make, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid to ensure your dish turns out perfect:
- Overcooking the pasta: Be sure to cook your pasta just until al dente. If it’s too soft before baking, it can become mushy in the oven.
- Using too much sauce: While it might be tempting to make extra Alfredo sauce, too much liquid can make the casserole overly creamy and result in a soupy texture.
- Not seasoning properly: Don’t forget to taste your Alfredo sauce before assembling the casserole. A little extra salt, pepper, or even garlic can make a big difference.
- Skipping the rest time: Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making serving easier and less messy.
Serving and Presentation Tips
To make your Chicken Alfredo Casserole look just as good as it tastes, try these serving and presentation ideas:
- Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with a side salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great contrast to the rich and creamy casserole.
- Crusty bread: Serve with slices of garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any extra Alfredo sauce.
- Family-style: Present the casserole straight from the baking dish to the table for a comforting, homey feel.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Chicken Alfredo Casserole is best served hot, right out of the oven. It pairs well with a variety of sides, from simple steamed vegetables to more elaborate dishes. Here are a few options to complement your meal:
- Garlic Bread: The crunchy texture of garlic bread is the perfect companion to the creamy casserole.
- Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: Lightly steamed green vegetables help balance the richness of the casserole.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp lettuce and tangy dressing of a Caesar salad offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts bring a touch of earthiness to the meal.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Alfredo Casserole
When it comes to serving your Chicken Alfredo Casserole, presentation matters. Here are some creative ways to serve this dish:
- Individual portions: Serve the casserole in small, individual gratin dishes for a more elegant presentation.
- Family-style: If you prefer a casual setting, place the baking dish directly on the table and allow everyone to help themselves.
- Garnished plates: Plate each serving with a garnish of fresh herbs and a side of vibrant vegetables to enhance the visual appeal.
Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe Tips
For best results, consider these tips when making your Chicken Alfredo Casserole:
- Make-ahead option: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time. Simply cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the assembled (but unbaked) casserole. When freezing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
- Extra cheesy topping: For an even richer topping, add some grated cheddar or gouda to the mozzarella for a more complex cheese flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce instead of homemade?
Yes, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce to save time. However, homemade sauce has a fresher taste and creamier texture.
What pasta works best for this casserole?
Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work best because they hold up well during baking and soak up the creamy sauce.
How long does Chicken Alfredo Casserole last in the fridge?
It will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms can be mixed in for added nutrients and flavor.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Conclusion
This Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the comforting appeal of a baked casserole. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless customization options, it's a recipe you'll want to make again and again. Whether you're serving a hungry family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Be sure to try it out, and enjoy the delicious, home-cooked goodness of Chicken Alfredo Casserole!
PrintChicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe
This Chicken Alfredo Casserole recipe is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and gooey cheese. Easy to make and perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and add cooked chicken. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the cooked pasta with Alfredo sauce, chicken, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer to a greased casserole dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, sauté some mushrooms or spinach with the chicken.
- You can use store-bought or homemade Alfredo sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
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