Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bowls

Description

Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bowls are a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a luscious Alfredo sauce are combined, then topped with gooey melted cheese and baked until golden perfection. Served in individual bowls, this dish is not only delicious but also makes for a fun, cozy presentation.

 Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bowls

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded

• 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine work best)

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking chicken, if uncooked)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

   • Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken (if not already cooked)

   • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

   • Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.

   • Cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Dice or shred.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce

   • In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.

   • Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.

   • Slowly whisk in milk and cream, stirring until thickened.

   • Add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until smooth.

4. Assemble the Bowls

   • In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, Alfredo sauce, and 1 cup mozzarella. Mix well.

   • Divide mixture into oven-safe bowls. Top each with remaining mozzarella cheese.

5. Bake

   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • Place bowls on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden.

6. Serve

   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

 Servings

This recipe makes 4 servings (4 individual bowls).

 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 520

• Protein: 34g

• Carbohydrates: 42g

• Fat: 24g

• Saturated Fat: 12g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 4g

• Sodium: 680mg

 Notes

• You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.

• For extra cheesiness, add a sprinkle of cheddar or provolone.

• If you don’t have oven-safe bowls, bake in a casserole dish and scoop into bowls before serving.

 Tips

• Don’t overcook the pasta—remember it will cook a little more while baking.

• Add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor in the Alfredo sauce.

• For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

 Benefits

• High in protein to keep you full and satisfied.

• A family-friendly comfort meal.

• Can be prepped ahead and baked just before serving.

• Customizable with different cheeses, pasta shapes, or added veggies.

 Q/A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the bowls, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bowls?
A: Yes, freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake.

Q: What pasta works best?
A: Short pastas like penne, rigatoni, or rotini hold the sauce and cheese well.

Q: Can I make it healthier?
A: Use whole wheat pasta, low-fat milk, and add vegetables for a lighter version.