Name: Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 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)

Ingredients

For the Alfredo Sauce:

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 the Ziti and Chicken:

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

For Assembly:

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Alfredo sauce by melting butter over medium heat in a saucepan. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Stir in heavy cream and reduce heat to low. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–4 minutes while stirring constantly.

Step 3: Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional nutmeg. Set the sauce aside.

Step 4: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: If chicken is not cooked, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then cook 6–8 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let rest 5 minutes, then shred or dice.

Step 6: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Mix well to coat evenly.

Step 7: Stir in 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 8: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.

Step 9: Pour pasta mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 10: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 11: Let rest 5 minutes before garnishing with parsley and serving.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream in the Alfredo sauce.

Swap shredded chicken for cooked sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a different flavor profile.

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.

Use gluten-free pasta if needed to make this dish gluten-free.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the baked ziti and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.