Description
A creamy and cheesy baked pasta dish combining tender chicken, ziti, and rich Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for added depth)
- 12 ounces ziti or penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken, if needed)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring to a simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, and Alfredo sauce.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: chicken alfredo, baked ziti, pasta, creamy, cheesy