Name: Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces uncooked ziti (or any pasta shape you love); 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well); 1 batch homemade Alfredo sauce; 1.5 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese; to taste freshly-grated Parmesan cheese (for topping); to taste fresh basil or parsley (for topping); 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock; 1 cup low-fat milk; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Jump to Recipe

Looking for a dinner that’s creamy, comforting, and guaranteed to win over even the pickiest eaters? Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti takes everything you love about classic pasta bakes and blends it with the dreamy richness of Alfredo sauce—it’s a family favorite for a reason! I still remember the first time I brought this bubbling casserole to the table; everyone went back for seconds before I could blink. Did you know baked pasta dishes were once a special Sunday treat in Italian-American homes? Now, they’re weeknight wonders!

This dish is pure comfort, but it’s also wonderfully easy to whip up with ingredients you probably already have. Much like my popular Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want impressive results with minimal fuss. I promise, once you try it, you’ll want it on regular rotation—let’s dig in!

What is Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti?

Ever wondered why baked ziti gets all the love in Italian-American kitchens? Add Alfredo sauce and chicken into the mix, and you’ve got magic in a pan! Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti is a playful mash-up of tender pasta, juicy chicken, and luscious homemade Alfredo, all crowned with melted cheese and baked to golden glory. Why is it called “ziti” when you can use any pasta? It’s tradition—but who says we can’t switch it up? After all, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach (or anyone’s, really!). So if you haven’t tried this yet, what are you waiting for? Grab your casserole dish and join the comfort food celebration!

Why You’ll Love This

Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti shines for its irresistible creamy texture and rich, cheesy flavor. The main highlight? It’s the combination of hearty chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a silky Alfredo sauce that feels indulgent yet easy to prepare at home. Making this dish in your own kitchen means you’ll save money—no need to splurge at an Italian restaurant for a cheesy baked pasta when you can make it yourself! Plus, you control every ingredient for ultimate freshness.

The bubbling mozzarella topping and fresh herbs bring a zing that sets this recipe apart. If you loved my Cheesy Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups, you’ll appreciate the similar comfort factor with a little something extra. Ready for your new go-to weeknight dinner? Gather your favorite baking dish and let’s make magic—don’t forget to share your results with me!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti is a superstar because it’s quick to assemble, endlessly customizable, and just plain delicious. The creamy homemade Alfredo sauce comes together with only a few pantry staples, and the entire dish can be prepped in about 15 minutes. With a total cook time under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a cozy meal to please a crowd.

Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti in a casserole dish with golden melted cheese and fresh herbs on top

Ingredients

12 ounces uncooked ziti (or any pasta shape you love)
2 cups shredded, cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
1 batch Alfredo sauce (see below)
1 1/2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
Freshly-grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Fresh basil or parsley (for topping)

For the Homemade Alfredo Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken or vegetable stock
1 cup low-fat milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for another minute to form a paste.
Gradually whisk in the chicken stock and milk. Keep whisking to avoid lumps, then add salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and let thicken for 2-3 minutes.
Stir in 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor), then remove from heat.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, most of the Alfredo sauce, and 1 cup of the mozzarella. Mix gently until everything is coated.
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Drizzle the remaining Alfredo sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and more Parmesan.
Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

What to Serve Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti With

To round out your meal, serve Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti with a crisp green salad tossed in Italian vinaigrette. Classic garlic bread or dinner rolls are perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce. For a touch of brightness, roasted or steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans work wonders. Pair with a cold sparkling water, lemonade, or even a light white wine for adults.

Top Tips for Perfecting

To ensure the best flavor, use freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan—it melts beautifully and amps up the gooey, cheesy factor. Short on time? Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even faster. Feel free to swap ziti for penne, rigatoni, or any sturdy pasta you have on hand.

If you want to add extra veggies, stir in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms before baking. Keep an eye on your pasta—undercook by a minute or two since it will finish cooking in the oven. Avoid over-baking to keep things creamy instead of dry!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For best results, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. To freeze, divide into individual portions, wrap tightly, and store for up to 2 months.

Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk or chicken broth to keep it creamy, or pop it in a covered baking dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Allow it to sit at room temperature while the oven preheats for even cooking.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes! If you’re short on time, your favorite jarred Alfredo works just fine. Homemade sauce still offers the richest flavor and texture.

What other proteins can I use?
Feel free to swap chicken for turkey, cooked Italian sausage, or even shrimp for a twist.

Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply substitute with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.

Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes make wonderful additions to boost nutrition and color.

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti is comfort food at its finest: creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. This easy baked pasta will quickly become a family favorite, whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy get-together. With pantry staples, minimal prep, and endless ways to adjust for taste or dietary needs, it’s sure to wow your loved ones. Give it a try and watch smiles appear around your table—don’t forget to tag me if you share your masterpiece!