Pin I stood in my tiny apartment kitchen watching my roommate stir a pot of cream sauce, completely skeptical about how good pasta bake could actually be. One bite later and I completely understood why she made this every single Sunday. The way the cheese bubbles up and gets those golden crispy edges while staying incredibly creamy underneath is just magic. We started doing our own versions with whatever leftovers we had, but the classic chicken version was always the winner.
My sister came over last winter when she was going through a rough breakup, and I made this for dinner without saying much. We sat on the couch with our bowls and watched terrible romantic comedies while the house still smelled like garlic and parmesan. Sometimes food says everything you need to say.
Ingredients
- Pasta: Penne or rigatoni holds onto that thick Alfredo sauce beautifully in every single bite
- Chicken breast: Diced into small pieces so it cooks quickly and stays tender throughout the bake
- Unsalted butter: Forms the foundation of your roux and gives the sauce that rich restaurant quality mouthfeel
- Fresh garlic: Do not use the jarred stuff because fresh garlic makes the whole house smell incredible
- All purpose flour: Just enough to thicken the cream sauce without making it heavy or pasty
- Whole milk: Essential for that velvety texture because skim milk just will not give you the same results
- Heavy cream: The secret to making the sauce feel luxurious and silky smooth
- Freshly grated Parmesan: Buy a block and grate it yourself because pre shredded cheese has anti caking agents that ruin the sauce
- Italian seasoning: A simple blend that pulls everything together without overwhelming the delicate cream flavors
- Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch adds a subtle warmth that makes people ask what your secret ingredient is
- Shredded mozzarella: Creates that gorgeous cheese pull and golden crust on top
- Fresh parsley: Adds a bright pop of color and fresh flavor to cut through all that richness
Instructions
- Get your oven ready:
- Preheat to 200°C and grease your baking dish so nothing sticks later.
- Cook the pasta:
- Boil until just al dente because it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Season and cook the chicken:
- Sear it in hot olive oil until golden and no longer pink inside.
- Start the sauce base:
- Melt butter and cook the garlic for just one minute until fragrant.
- Make the roux:
- Whisk in the flour and stir constantly for one minute to cook out the raw taste.
- Add the liquids:
- Pour in milk and heavy cream gradually while whisking to prevent lumps.
- Thicken the sauce:
- Cook for a few minutes until it coats the back of your spoon.
- Add the cheese and seasonings:
- Stir in Parmesan and spices until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine everything:
- Mix the pasta and chicken into the sauce until evenly coated.
- Transfer to baking dish:
- Spread everything evenly in your prepared baking dish.
- Add the cheese topping:
- Sprinkle mozzarella and extra Parmesan all over the top.
- Bake until golden:
- Cook for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Let it rest:
- Wait 5 minutes before serving so the sauce sets slightly.
Pin This became my go to meal when friends moved into new apartments and I wanted to bring something that felt like home. There is something about a bubbling pasta bake that just makes any space feel welcoming.
Make It Your Own
Once you master the basic sauce you can start adding whatever vegetables or proteins your family actually enjoys. Sautéed mushrooms work beautifully here and add a nice earthy flavor that balances the rich cream sauce.
Time Saving Hacks
A rotisserie chicken from the grocery store works perfectly if you are short on time or just do not feel like cooking raw chicken. The sauce comes together so quickly that this is still faster than ordering takeout.
Serving Suggestions
A simple green salad with bright vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta perfectly. Crusty bread is non negotiable because you will want to soak up every last bit of that sauce.
- Let the dish rest at least 5 minutes before serving
- Grate extra Parmesan at the table for those who love cheese
- This freezes beautifully for up to three months
Pin Comfort food does not need to be complicated to bring everyone to the table.
Recipe Q&A
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Penne or rigatoni are ideal as their ridges hold the creamy sauce well, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
- → How do I keep the chicken tender and juicy?
Cook the chicken pieces in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and just cooked through to retain moisture.
- → Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the Alfredo sauce can be made in advance and gently reheated before combining with pasta and chicken.
- → What additions can enhance the flavor?
Try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth and variety.
- → How do I achieve a golden, bubbly cheese topping?
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the dish and bake until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce and tender chicken perfectly.