Rotisserie Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Highlighted under: Warm Table Favorites
I absolutely adore making this Rotisserie Chicken Alfredo Casserole for dinner! It’s a perfect blend of flavors that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. Using a rotisserie chicken saves precious time, making it an ideal weeknight meal. The creamy Alfredo sauce combined with pasta and tender chicken creates a rich and delicious dish that my entire family loves. Plus, it’s so easy that I find myself whipping it up even when I’m not pressed for time. You can’t go wrong with this recipe for a satisfying dinner!
Making this casserole has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. The idea of combining a ready-to-eat rotisserie chicken and a creamy Alfredo sauce makes everything come together so quickly. I remember the first time I served it; my friends were amazed at how delicious and homemade it tasted, all for a simple weeknight meal.
What I find works best is to use penne or rotini pasta, as they hold onto the sauce beautifully. Baking it with a sprinkle of Parmesan on top creates the perfect golden crust that adds a wonderful texture contrast. It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Alfredo sauce with a savory twist from tender chicken
- Quick and easy meal ready in under an hour
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or a cozy family dinner
Perfectly Cooked Pasta
Cooking the penne pasta to al dente is crucial for this casserole. If overcooked, it can become mushy during baking, resulting in a less than ideal texture. To achieve perfect pasta, cook it just until it is firm to the bite, about 1-2 minutes less than the package directions. This ensures that it holds up beautifully when mixed with the creamy Alfredo sauce and is baked in the oven.
When cooking the pasta, be sure to season the boiling water with a generous amount of salt. This adds flavor and enhances the overall taste of the dish. I find that using at least 1 tablespoon of salt per quart of water works well. After draining, give the noodles a quick rinse to stop the cooking process, and prevent sticking, especially if you're mixing them with the sauce shortly after.
Cheese Choices
The blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese is what gives this casserole its incredible richness and flavor. Mozzarella adds a delightful stretchy texture when melted, while Parmesan lends a savory depth that complements the Alfredo sauce. If you're looking for a twist, consider using a smoked mozzarella or adding a dash of fontina for a unique flavor profile. The key is to choose cheeses that melt well and enhance the creamy sauce.
Be sure to layer your cheese evenly on top for optimal melting. If you want a crispy topping, consider broiling the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it during this step; cheese can burn quickly. This will give the casserole a beautiful golden color while providing a satisfying texture contrast against the creamy pasta.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This Rotisserie Chicken Alfredo Casserole is an excellent dish for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Cover it tightly with foil to prevent drying out. If you're making it further in advance, it also freezes well. Simply wrap the assembled, unbaked casserole in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, labeling it with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, let the casserole thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. If cooking from frozen, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through. This make-ahead option not only saves time during busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience!
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Ensure everything is well combined for the best flavor!
Instructions
Prep your baking dish and preheat the oven for optimal cooking.
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, Alfredo sauce, cooked pasta, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
Layer the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your delicious casserole with a side salad for a complete meal!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in sautéed mushrooms or spinach with the chicken. You can also substitute the Alfredo sauce with homemade sauce for a fresher taste.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy casserole with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to cut through the richness. The acidity of the dressing balances nicely with the creamy Alfredo, resulting in a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
If you want to spice things up, consider adding steamed broccoli or spinach directly to the casserole mixture. This not only adds color but also increases the nutritional value of the dish. Roasted vegetables on the side can enhance the meal's flavor profile and provide a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize this casserole by swapping out the rotisserie chicken for shredded turkey or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just make sure any substitutions are pre-cooked and seasoned. For a spicier kick, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the chicken mixture before baking.
Another delightful variation would be to incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for added flavor and texture. Both ingredients pair beautifully with the creamy Alfredo sauce, creating a dish that feels gourmet without extra effort. These small additions can elevate your casserole and impress even the pickiest of eaters.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled or baked chicken works perfectly as a substitute.
→ Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.
→ Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?
Yes, gluten-free pasta can be used, but adjust cooking times as needed.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Rotisserie Chicken Alfredo Casserole
I absolutely adore making this Rotisserie Chicken Alfredo Casserole for dinner! It’s a perfect blend of flavors that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. Using a rotisserie chicken saves precious time, making it an ideal weeknight meal. The creamy Alfredo sauce combined with pasta and tender chicken creates a rich and delicious dish that my entire family loves. Plus, it’s so easy that I find myself whipping it up even when I’m not pressed for time. You can’t go wrong with this recipe for a satisfying dinner!
Created by: Naomi Clarke
Recipe Type: Warm Table Favorites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, Alfredo sauce, cooked pasta, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in sautéed mushrooms or spinach with the chicken. You can also substitute the Alfredo sauce with homemade sauce for a fresher taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 32g