Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces of penne pasta, cooked in salted water as per package instructions
  • 3 cups of diced cooked chicken
  • 3 tablespoons of butter
  • 2 tablespoons of flour
  • 1 teaspoon of minced garlic
  • 2 cups of whole milk
  • 1 cup of heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Cooking spray
  • 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley

Instructions:

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Use cooking spray to lightly grease a 3-quart baking dish.
  2. Heat a large saucepan over medium heat and melt the butter. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring well, and cook for an additional minute to remove the raw flavor.
  4. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to combine. Continue to whisk the mixture and let it simmer until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, stirring until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and diced chicken. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the top, tossing everything together to ensure the pasta and chicken are well-coated.
  7. Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the dish is bubbling and the cheese on top turns golden brown.
  9. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta, a creamy and comforting meal perfect for any day of the week!