Alfredo Chicken Rigatoni Bake
Creamy, cheesy alfredo sauce hugs tender rigatoni and juicy chicken in this irresistibly comforting casserole.
Total: 65 minPrep: 20 minCook: 45 min8 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups frozen peas
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Steps
- 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
- 2 Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- 3 In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux.
- 4 Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly until thickened.
- 5 Stir in Parmesan cheese, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 6 Combine cooked rigatoni, chicken, alfredo sauce, and frozen peas in a large bowl.
- 7 Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese.
- 8 Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden.
- 9 Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Equipment
- Large pot
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
Variations
- Add cooked bacon or diced ham for extra heartiness.
- Substitute butternut squash for a fall twist.
Substitutions
- Use penne or fusilli pasta if rigatoni isn't available.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter cream sauce.
Pairings
- Pairs well with a light Pinot Grigio.
- Serve with steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus.
Nutrition
Calories:
520 kcal
Fat:
28g fat
Carbs:
45g carbohydrates
Protein:
26g protein
Fiber:
2g fiber
Sugar:
4g sugar
Sodium:
680mg sodium
Tips
- For a richer flavor, use homemade roasted chicken.
- Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat covered with foil at 350°F.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- A warm loaf of garlic bread makes a delightful side.
FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a quick and flavorful option.