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Chicken Alfredo Bake: A Comfort Food Classic

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as beloved as an indulgent pasta bake. The creamy richness of Chicken Alfredo Bake perfectly combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety Alfredo sauce, making it a winning choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. Simple to prepare yet undeniably delicious, this dish is sure to please both young and old alike.

Ingredients

To make a scrumptious Chicken Alfredo Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 400g (14 oz) of pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 300ml (10 fl oz) of double cream
• 100g (3.5 oz) of grated Parmesan cheese
• 100g (3.5 oz) of mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning (optional)

Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens) or 400°F.

2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Sauté the Chicken: In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, if using.

4. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: In a saucepan, gently heat the double cream over medium heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure that everything is coated in the lovely creamy sauce.

6. Assemble the Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

8. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Variations

One of the great aspects of Chicken Alfredo Bake is its versatility. Feel free to customise the dish to suit your taste:

• Vegetables: Add some steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted red peppers to boost the nutritional value and add colour to your bake.
• Pasta Alternatives: Swap out traditional pasta for wholegrain or gluten-free options to cater to dietary preferences.
• Seasoning: Spice things up with a hint of nutmeg in the Alfredo sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick.

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Bake is a quintessential comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its creamy sauce, succulent chicken, and cheesy topping, it’s no wonder this dish has become a go-to for families across the UK. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful bake? You’re sure to create a new family favourite!