Introduction

There’s something truly special about sharing a hearty, homemade meal with family, especially when it’s as delicious and comforting as Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Ziti. This dish brings together the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce, the satisfying bite of ziti pasta, and the tender, juicy morsels of chicken, all crowned with a bubbly, golden layer of cheese. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the warmth and indulgence of this culinary delight that promises both flavor and fond memories.

Recipe Summary

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Servings: 6
  • Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream and milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  6. Add the cream cheese and whisk until fully melted and incorporated.
  7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it well with the sauce.
  9. Combine the cooked ziti with the chicken Alfredo mixture, then transfer everything to a large baking dish.
  10. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
  12. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Helpful Tips

  • For a richer sauce, use half-and-half instead of milk.
  • Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
  • To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Replace ziti with penne or rigatoni if preferred.
  • Use a different cheese blend like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.

Pairings

This Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Ziti pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try a refreshing sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Conclusion

We hope this Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Ziti brings joy and comfort to your table. We’d love to see your creations! Share your dishes on social media using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram @Zynahz. Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website, and subscribe to our newsletter for more inspiring recipes. Follow Zynahz on social media for the latest updates and culinary tips. Happy cooking!

Categorized in:

Bread & Baking, Chicken Recipes, Dairy-Free Recipes, Global Recipes, Ingredients Focus, Pasta & Rice, Uncategorized,

Last Update: December 25, 2024