A creamy, easy baked ziti with chicken and Alfredo sauce.
introduction
This Chicken Alfredo Ziti Casserole is hearty and quick to make. If you want more casserole ideas, check best chicken casserole recipes for more simple meals. The dish uses cooked chicken, pasta, and store-bought Alfredo sauce for an easy weeknight dinner.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe because it is simple, filling, and loved by most people. You mix pasta, chicken, and sauce, then bake. It saves time and feeds a family. It is creamy like other comfort-bake meals such as a cheesy chicken fajita casserole but with a smooth Alfredo flavor.
how to make Chicken Alfredo Ziti Casserole
You cook the ziti, mix it with diced chicken and Alfredo sauce, then top with cheeses and bake. The steps are easy and the oven does most of the work. You can swap ingredients for what you have on hand, similar to a cheesy chicken rice casserole, and still get a good result.
Ingredients :
- 8 ounces ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, diced chicken, Alfredo sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
how to serve Chicken Alfredo Ziti Casserole
Serve hot right from the oven. Add a simple green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before scooping so it holds its shape.
how to store Chicken Alfredo Ziti Casserole
Cool the casserole to room temperature. Cover and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or use the microwave in short bursts. For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Chicken Alfredo Ziti Casserole
- Use cooked chicken you already have to save time.
- Do not overcook the pasta; cook to just al dente so it does not get mushy in the oven.
- Stir salt and pepper into the sauce before baking to spread the flavor.
- Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking so it sets and is easier to serve.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked broccoli or spinach to add vegetables and color.
- Use rotisserie chicken for very quick prep.
- Swap half the Alfredo sauce for marinara for a pink sauce twist.
- Add cooked bacon bits or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes. Penne or rigatoni work well as they hold the sauce.
Q: Do I have to use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
A: No. You can use homemade Alfredo if you prefer, or a light cream sauce.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble and cover in the fridge. Bake when you are ready, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if cold.
Q: How do I make the top extra golden?
A: Turn on the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely so it does not burn.
Conclusion
For another baked ziti idea with similar flavors and instructions, see Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti | Gimme Some Oven.
Chicken Alfredo Ziti Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, diced chicken, Alfredo sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.