If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple to make, family-friendly, and guaranteed to please everyone at the dinner table, this Easy Chicken Alfredo Casserole is the perfect choice. Combining tender shredded chicken, pasta, and creamy Alfredo sauce, this casserole is baked to perfection with gooey melted mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a dish to prepare ahead of time, this casserole is easy to assemble and absolutely delicious. The addition of frozen peas brings a burst of color and nutrition, though it’s optional if you prefer a simpler version. Serve this casserole alongside a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This casserole comes together in no time and requires minimal prep. With pre-cooked chicken and pasta, it’s a dish you can assemble quickly and bake with minimal effort.

2. Comforting and Filling

With its creamy Alfredo sauce, pasta, and melted cheese, this dish is the ultimate comfort food that will satisfy any craving for something rich and hearty.

3. Perfect for Meal Prep

The casserole can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep or to take to a potluck. Simply assemble it, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

4. Family-Friendly

Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this casserole. The combination of chicken, cheese, and pasta is always a hit with kids and adults alike.

5. Versatile

Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your preferences. Add extra vegetables, use a different type of cheese, or swap the pasta for your favorite variety to customize this dish to your taste.

Ingredients

Cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
Cooked pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Frozen peas (optional)
Garlic, minced
Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

Vegetable Add-ins: You can add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms to the casserole for extra nutrition and flavor.
Dairy-Free: To make the casserole dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese and a non-dairy Alfredo sauce made with coconut milk or cashew cream.
Gluten-Free: Swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety to make this casserole suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a small diced jalapeño to the Alfredo sauce.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked pasta, Alfredo sauce, sautéed garlic, and frozen peas (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top the casserole with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand.
Don’t Overcook the Casserole: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes to ensure the cheese doesn’t burn. Once the cheese is bubbly and golden, it’s ready.
Customize the Cheese: Feel free to mix up the cheeses. A blend of mozzarella and cheddar works well, or you can add a bit of ricotta for extra creaminess.

How to Serve

This Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a meal on its own, but it pairs perfectly with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a light tomato soup for a comforting, complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Alfredo Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a bit of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture if necessary.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well! To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, store-bought Alfredo sauce works perfectly in this recipe, saving time and effort. Just make sure to choose a high-quality sauce for the best flavor.

2. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms to make this casserole even more nutritious.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready to serve.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

You can swap the pasta for any type you prefer, such as elbow macaroni, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

5. How do I make the casserole spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a diced jalapeño to the casserole mixture to give it a spicy kick.

6. Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing.

7. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken from another meal is perfect for this casserole.

8. How do I keep the casserole creamy?

To keep the casserole creamy, make sure to use a good-quality Alfredo sauce and don’t overbake it. Adding a bit of milk or cream when reheating can also help restore the texture.

9. Can I make this dish without peas?

Yes, peas are optional in this recipe. You can omit them or substitute them with other vegetables like corn or bell peppers.

10. How do I make the casserole lighter?

To make the casserole lighter, you can use a reduced-fat Alfredo sauce, light mozzarella cheese, and skip the Parmesan, or use a smaller amount.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Alfredo Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s quick, easy, and sure to please everyone in the family. With creamy Alfredo sauce, pasta, tender chicken, and a golden, cheesy top, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight meal or making it ahead for later, it’s a versatile and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or cheeses, so you can make it your own!