Indulge in Creamy Goodness: Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken Alfredo Casserole

Get ready to dive into a comforting and delicious dish with this Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken Alfredo Casserole! This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its rich flavors and gooey cheese, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home!

What Makes It Special

What makes this casserole truly special is the combination of flavors and textures. The garlic butter sauce infuses the dish with a rich, savory taste, while the creamy Alfredo sauce envelops the chicken and pasta in a luscious coating. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the gooey cheese underneath. It’s a dish that brings together all the comforting elements of a classic chicken Alfredo, but with an exciting twist that makes it perfect for sharing!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 lb penne pasta
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions, then drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
  3. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses, cooking until the sauce thickens and the cheese melts.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large casserole dish, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and cheesy sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
  5. Add Topping and Bake: Top the casserole with breadcrumbs and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this deliciously creamy and crispy casserole hot!

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: 600 kcal
  • Protein: 40g
  • Fat: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Helpful Cooking Tips

  • Chicken Variations: You can substitute the chicken with cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
  • Pasta Alternatives: Feel free to use other pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni if you prefer.
  • Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Conclusion

This Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a delightful dish that combines all the flavors you love about chicken Alfredo into one easy-to-make casserole. It’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with a satisfying crunch that will have everyone coming back for more. We hope you enjoy making and sharing this comforting meal! Let us know how it turned out, and don’t forget to follow us for more delicious recipes!