Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this million dollar chicken pasta will become a favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Great for leftovers. Use rotisserie chicken.
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One dish. Minimal cleanup.
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Creamy and cheesy. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves creamy chicken pasta.
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Budget-friendly. Chicken, pasta, and sauce are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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12 oz uncooked short pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)
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3 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded (about 1 lb cooked)
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24 oz jar creamy Alfredo sauce (about 3 cups)
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3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Ingredient Notes
Short pasta: Use penne, rotini, or rigatoni.
Cooked chicken: Use rotisserie or leftover chicken. Chop or shred it.
Alfredo sauce: Use jarred creamy Alfredo sauce.
Mozzarella cheese: Use shredded mozzarella. Divide into 2 cups and 1 cup.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook 2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain well.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Chop or shred the cooked chicken into bite-size pieces.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, chopped chicken, the entire jar of Alfredo sauce, and 2 cups of the shredded mozzarella. Stir until evenly coated.
Step 5: Transfer to the Dish
Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it into an even layer.
Step 6: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
Step 7: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Step 8: Uncover and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the top is melted and lightly golden.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Pasta
This creamy, cheesy pasta is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with green beans or broccoli.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or basil.
With Extra Parmesan: Add more cheese on top.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Chicken Thighs: Use cooked chicken thighs.
Make It with Different Pasta: Use shells or ziti.
Make It with Different Sauce: Use marinara or vodka sauce.
Make It with Vegetables: Add peas or mushrooms.
Make It with Bacon: Add crumbled bacon.
Make It with Herbs: Add thyme or parsley.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Cook the pasta 2 minutes less than al dente. It will finish in the oven.
Do not overmix. This keeps the pasta from breaking.
Let the casserole rest before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Shrimp or sausage can be used.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Shells or ziti can be used.
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes. Marinara or vodka sauce can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The pasta did not absorb enough liquid. Let it rest.
Can I add more cheese?
Yes. Use up to 4 cups.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
Can I make this without chicken?
Yes. Omit the chicken.
The Beauty of Creamy Pasta
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, creamy, cheesy pasta dish that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This million dollar chicken pasta is a celebration of all those things.
Keep pasta in your pantry. Keep chicken, sauce, and cheese in your fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes covered, plus 10–15 minutes uncovered
Rest Time: 5–10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings