Baked Chicken Alfredo Rotini Casserole recipe

Last weekend, I had the joy of preparing Baked Chicken Alfredo Rotini Casserole for my family, and let me tell you—it was an absolute hit! The creamy, cheesy alfredo sauce paired with tender chicken and perfectly baked rotini pasta made for the ultimate comfort food. The rich flavors and comforting aroma filled our kitchen, turning a regular evening into something special. My family, who can sometimes be picky eaters, couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was. Even the leftovers didn’t stand a chance! As someone who loves sharing recipes that bring people together, this is one I highly recommend trying.

Cooking is an art, but it’s also a way to connect with loved ones. Every dish tells a story, and this recipe is no different. As I was preparing it, I thought about how food brings us together—whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a special occasion, there’s always something magical about gathering around a table.

---

Why You’ll Love Baked Chicken Alfredo Rotini Casserole

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

• Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. You can make it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready, making it a great dish for meal prepping too.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, everyday ingredients. It’s a great way to turn a few pantry staples into a delicious and hearty meal for the whole family.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and easy steps, even beginners will feel confident making this dish. No complicated techniques—just bake, and you’re good to go.
• Customizable: Add in veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also use rotisserie chicken to make it even quicker.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s kids, adults, or even picky eaters, this casserole is a guaranteed hit with everyone at the table. The creamy sauce and pasta combo never disappoint.

---

Ingredients

Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll need. The full ingredient list and measurements are below in the recipe card.

• 1 lb rotini pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

---

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Alfredo sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the cheeses: Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Cook until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
5. Combine pasta and chicken: Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.
6. Assemble the casserole: Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with breadcrumbs if using.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Serve and enjoy: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!

---

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 450 kcal

---

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

---

How to Serve Baked Chicken Alfredo Rotini Casserole

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance the dining experience with these side dishes:

• Fresh Salads: Pair with a crisp green salad, such as a Caesar or garden salad, to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. A side of breadsticks would be perfect too.
• Vegetable Sides: Roasted veggies, like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini, are a great way to add color and nutrients to the meal.
• Creamy Accompaniments: If you like extra creaminess, serve with a side of sour cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

---

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble it, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add some hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes to the alfredo sauce.
• Dietary Adjustments: For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese. You can also swap the cream for half-and-half for a creamier texture without the full-fat content.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
• Double the Batch: This casserole is perfect for making in large batches. It freezes well, so make extra and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

---

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the rotini with another type of pasta?
A1: Yes, you can use penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

Q2: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can prepare it ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Q4: Can I freeze this casserole?
A4: Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warm.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Absolutely! Just be sure to use a larger baking dish. Cooking times may need to be adjusted slightly.

Q7: Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
A7: Yes, just swap the regular pasta for a gluten-free version, and you’re good to go.

Q8: What side dishes go well with this casserole?
A8: Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a side salad are all excellent options.

Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?
A9: Use low-fat cheese and milk, or try adding extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli to increase the nutritional value.

Q10: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?
A10: A 9×13-inch casserole dish works best for this recipe, but any baking dish with similar dimensions will do.

---

Enjoy making this Baked Chicken Alfredo Rotini Casserole, and I hope it becomes a favorite at your table too!

Print