Easy Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti Recipe for Busy Nights

Picture this: a chaotic Tuesday evening, deadlines looming, and the kids are squabbling over whose turn it is to pick a movie.

Enter the warm hug of comfort food: Easy Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti.

It’s like wrapping up a long day in a creamy, cheesy blanket—quick, satisfying, and just the kind of culinary magic trick we all need.

Steps

Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly coat a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set the dish aside for later use.

Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling, salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, return it to the pot, and mix it with shredded chicken and alfredo sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over this layer, then add the remaining pasta mixture on top, and evenly sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
Bake the dish for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and just begins to turn golden brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and serve immediately, garnishing with freshly-grated Parmesan and chopped parsley if desired.
To prepare the alfredo sauce, start by heating olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for one minute until fragrant, then stir in flour and cook for another minute.
Gradually add chicken stock while whisking until smooth, then whisk in milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to thicken for about a minute, then stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until the cheese has melted. Remove the sauce from heat and set it aside.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ziti with any pasta shape you like, such as penne or fettuccine. You can also choose between classic, whole-wheat, or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary preferences.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this recipe a bit healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta, adding extra vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms, or using a gluten-free pasta if needed. The alfredo sauce is already lightened up, but you can also use part-skim mozzarella to reduce fat content.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding extra vegetables instead. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp if you’re looking for a seafood option.
What are some variations to spice up this dish?
To add more flavor, consider incorporating Italian herbs into the alfredo sauce, or sprinkling crushed red pepper for a spicy kick. For a Cajun twist, mix in 1-2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning to the sauce.
What side dishes pair well with Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti?
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad like an Everyday Salad or a Family’s Favorite Salad. Roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or asparagus also complement the meal well. For a sweet touch, serve with a Berry Fruit Salad or Winter Fruit Salad.

Double the Sauce: If you prefer your pasta dishes on the saucier side, consider doubling the alfredo sauce recipe. This will add extra creaminess and ensure that every bite is well-coated.
Pre-Cook Veggies: If you want to include vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms, pre-cook them by sautéing or roasting before adding them to the casserole. This ensures they are tender, as the bake time may not be sufficient to cook them thoroughly.
Experiment with Pasta Types: Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes and varieties, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, to suit your dietary preferences or mix up the texture of the dish.
Make It Spicy: For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the alfredo sauce or sprinkle them on top of the casserole before baking. This can enhance the flavor and provide a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce.