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–+ servings
Dump and Bake Chicken Alfredo 1

Dump and Bake Chicken Alfredo

This easy Dump and Bake Chicken Alfredo combines all the creamy, savory goodness in one dish with minimal prep work. Simply combine your ingredients, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen while you attend to other things. It's the ultimate weeknight dinner solution that delivers restaurant-quality taste with barely any effort.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Rest Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • Aluminum Foil
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups pre-cooked chicken shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works wonderfully)
  • 12 oz uncooked penne pasta about 3½ cups
  • 2 cups milk whole milk provides the creamiest results
  • 1½ cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese divided
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
  • In your prepared baking dish, combine the uncooked pasta, chicken, milk, chicken broth, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until thoroughly mixed.
  • Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
  • After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and carefully remove the foil (watch for steam!). Stir the pasta mixture—you'll notice it's starting to thicken. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  • Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden, and the pasta is tender.
  • Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Ingredient Substitutions:
  • Pasta options: Substitute penne with fettuccine broken into pieces, rotini, or any medium pasta shape.
  • Dairy alternatives: For a lighter version, use 2% milk, though the sauce won't be quite as rich. For dairy-free needs, unsweetened almond milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives can work.
  • Protein swaps: Turkey, ham, or even smoked salmon can replace chicken for interesting flavor variations.
  • Vegetable additions: Add 1 cup of frozen peas, roasted broccoli florets, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor complexity.
Pro Tips:
  • For extra flavor, bloom your garlic and Italian seasoning in 1 tablespoon of olive oil for 30 seconds in the microwave before adding to the mixture.
  • Ensure your foil seal is tight—any significant steam escape will result in undercooked pasta and a dry casserole.
  • If your pasta remains too firm after the initial baking period, add an extra ¼ cup of hot liquid and continue baking for 5-10 more minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 32gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 780mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g
Keyword Chicken Alfredo, Pasta Bake, One Dish Meal, Easy Dinner, Casserole
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