Upgrade Your Weeknight Dinner Game With This Easy Baked Chicken Alfredo Ziti

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of this comforting classic with our comprehensive guide on how to make baked chicken alfredo ziti. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, creamy alfredo sauce, and al dente ziti pasta, topped with a golden-brown crust.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 (16-ounce) package ziti pasta
• 1 (10.75-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Step 2: Cook the Ziti

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Cut the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the cooked ziti, chicken, and alfredo sauce to the bowl and stir to combine.

Step 5: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 6: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the ziti.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is hot and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve

Let the baked chicken alfredo ziti rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Tips for Success:

• For a richer flavor, use homemade Alfredo sauce.
• If you don’t have ziti pasta, you can use any other type of short pasta, such as penne or macaroni.
• To make the dish even more decadent, add a layer of cooked spinach or broccoli before topping with the cheese.
• Serve the baked chicken alfredo ziti with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.

Variations:

• Chicken Alfredo Ziti with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the Alfredo sauce.
• Chicken Alfredo Ziti with Mushrooms: Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms in butter before adding to the Alfredo sauce.
• Chicken Alfredo Ziti with Roasted Red Peppers: Roast 1 red bell pepper and add it to the ziti mixture.

Conclusion: A Culinary Delight for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a comforting meal, baked chicken alfredo ziti is sure to please everyone at the table. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked ziti create a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use any type of short pasta, such as penne, macaroni, or rotini.

Q: How do I make homemade Alfredo sauce?

A: To make homemade Alfredo sauce, melt 1/4 cup of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the baked chicken alfredo ziti up to 24 hours ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate. Before serving, bake as directed in the recipe.