Dinner

Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti Recipe

ByGabriel Langdon December 9, 2025December 9, 2025

Introduction

Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti is a comforting and creamy pasta dish perfect for family dinners. Tender chicken and cheesy Alfredo sauce blend beautifully with ziti for a rich, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and bake.

The image shows a close-up of creamy baked pasta served in a white shallow bowl placed on a white marbled surface. The dish has three clear layers: the bottom layer is cooked penne pasta visible through the melted cheese, the middle layer is a thick, smooth white cheese sauce coating the pasta, and the top layer is a golden-brown cheese crust, slightly bubbled and browned with some herbs sprinkled on top. A fork lifts a portion, pulling stretchy melted cheese upward, showing the gooey texture. Fresh green parsley is sprinkled across the dish, adding a touch of color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
12 ounces ziti or penne pasta
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken, if needed)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and melted. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Set aside.
Step 4: Cook the ziti or penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: If chicken is not pre-cooked, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook 6-8 minutes per side until done. Let rest 5 minutes, then shred or dice.
Step 6: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Mix thoroughly to coat evenly.
Step 7: Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese into the pasta mixture.
Step 8: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil.
Step 9: Spread the pasta mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly on top.
Step 10: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 11: Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream without sacrificing creaminess.
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the mixture for extra veggies and flavor.
Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for a little heat.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out.

How to Serve

The dish shows a white bowl filled with baked penne pasta covered in a creamy, melted cheese sauce. The top layer has a golden-brown crust with small spots of darker browning, sprinkled with green herbs. Beneath this crispy top, the penne pasta appears soft and coated in thick white sauce, with threads of melted cheese stretching out as a spoon lifts a portion. The textures range from the creamy, smooth sauce to the slightly rough baked cheese on top. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it uncovered for a few hours before baking. Just add extra baking time if baking straight from a cold dish.

Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti?

Absolutely. Freeze in a freezer-safe container before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual, adding extra baking time if needed.