Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breast (cubed)
• salt (to taste)
• black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking chicken)
• 1 lb penne pasta (cooked al dente)
• 0.5 cup butter (1 stick)
• 4 clove garlic (minced)
• 2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• 2 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded, divided)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. 2

   Season the cubed chicken breast with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Toss to coat evenly.

3. 3

   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

4. 4

   In the same skillet (or a clean saucepan), melt the butter over medium heat.

5. 5

   Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

6. 6

   Slowly pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

7. 7

   Whisk in the grated parmesan cheese and 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese. Continue whisking until the cheese is melted and the sauce has thickened slightly.

8. 8

   Add the cooked penne pasta and the cooked chicken into the sauce. Toss until everything is thoroughly coated.

9. 9

   Transfer the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

10. 10

    Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.

11. 11

    Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

12. 12

    Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For the best results, cook the pasta 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions (al dente) as it will continue to cook in the oven. You can also add broccoli or spinach for a vegetable boost.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• dinner
• pasta
• chicken
• alfredo
• baked
• comfort food
• Italian-American