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Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti Recipe

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3.9 from 86 reviews

  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

This Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti is a creamy, cheesy pasta casserole featuring tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce. Perfectly baked with melted mozzarella, it makes a comforting and satisfying meal for family dinners or gatherings, combining classic Italian flavors with a hearty twist.

Ingredients

Pasta and Protein

  • 450 g uncooked ziti or penne noodles
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon (about 5-6 pieces)

Cheese

  • 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese

Alfredo Sauce

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream

Seasoning and Garnish

  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray and set aside to use later.
  2. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the ziti or penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and return to the pot.
  3. Make Alfredo Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  4. Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and garlic mixture, stirring continuously to form a roux. Cook for about 1 more minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  5. Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Slowly add the heavy cream while whisking to combine, then add the grated parmesan cheese. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and starts to simmer, then let it thicken for 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
  6. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Bacon: Add the Alfredo sauce, shredded chicken, and chopped cooked bacon to the drained pasta in the pot. Toss thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
  7. Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the top.
  8. Add Remaining Layers: Pour the remaining pasta mixture on top and finish by sprinkling the leftover mozzarella cheese evenly over it.
  9. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Remove the baked ziti from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti!

Notes

  • Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth sauce.
  • Make sure the pasta is cooked al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • You can substitute bacon with pancetta or omit it for a milder flavor.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
  • Leftovers keep well and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Find it online: https://kitchenloving.com/chicken-alfredo-baked-ziti-recipe/