A creamy, comforting Dump and Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole that's easy to make. Combining tender chicken, penne pasta, Alfredo sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and Cheddar, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it reaches the correct temperature for an even bake.
Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear, approximately 15 minutes. Once done, drain and allow the chicken to cool slightly before cutting it into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring lightly salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender but firm to the bite, about 11 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked penne pasta, Alfredo sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella, milk, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into a 1.5-quart casserole dish, spreading it evenly across the dish. Smooth the top layer and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and all of the Cheddar cheese over the mixture to create a melted, golden cheese topping.
Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
Notes
To make this casserole gluten-free, simply substitute the penne pasta with a gluten-free variety and ensure the Alfredo sauce is gluten-free. This will maintain the creamy, delicious texture while accommodating gluten-free needs.