Banana Pepper Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe

Introduction

Banana Pepper Chicken Alfredo Bake is a comforting pasta dish with a creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and a zesty kick from banana peppers. This bake combines rich, cheesy flavors with a subtle tang, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
• 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
• 1 ½ cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup banana peppers, sliced (mild or hot, to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Sauté garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add cooked chicken to the skillet along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir for 2–3 minutes.
5. Step 5: Add the Alfredo sauce and banana peppers to the chicken, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Step 6: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well-coated.
7. Step 7: Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
8. Step 8: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
9. Step 9: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use mild or hot banana peppers to control the level of heat in the dish.
• Swap chicken for turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
• Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers to boost nutrition.
• Try dairy-free or reduced-fat cheese alternatives to suit dietary needs.
• Using rigatoni or penne ensures the sauce clings well for maximum flavor in each bite.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, warm in the oven or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. This dish can also be frozen for longer storage—thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any sturdy pasta like ziti, fusilli, or shells will work well since they hold the sauce nicely and bake without becoming mushy.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the pasta mixture and assemble the dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for meal planning.

Banana Pepper Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe

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4.8 from 51 reviews

Banana Pepper Chicken Alfredo Bake is a creamy, comforting pasta casserole featuring tender shredded chicken, tangy banana peppers, and rich Alfredo sauce baked to golden perfection under a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This dish expertly balances savory flavors with a subtle spicy kick, making it an ideal choice for family dinners and gatherings that crave a satisfying yet flavorful meal.

• Author: Rami
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein and Pasta

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
• 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta

Sauce and Seasoning

• 1 ½ cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cheeses and Toppings

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup banana peppers, sliced (mild or hot, to taste)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Baking Dish and Oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Cook the Pasta. Boil the penne or rigatoni pasta in salted water until al dente, typically about 10-12 minutes depending on the pasta brand. Drain and set aside to avoid overcooking in the oven.
3. Sauté Aromatics and Chicken. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add the cooked chicken breast along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; stir and cook for 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.
4. Add Sauce and Banana Peppers. Pour in the Alfredo sauce and add the sliced banana peppers to the skillet, stirring to combine everything evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Combine Pasta with Sauce Mixture. Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the chicken and sauce, tossing thoroughly to coat the pasta well with the creamy sauce and evenly distribute banana peppers.
6. Assemble and Top the Bake. Transfer the pasta mixture into the pre-greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top to create a cheesy crust.
7. Bake the Dish. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the sauce is heated through.
8. Garnish and Serve. Remove the bake from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh herbal note and vibrant color.

Notes

• You can use mild or hot banana peppers depending on your heat preference.
• Substitute the chicken with turkey or tofu to vary the protein source.
• For a lighter version, use whole wheat pasta and a low-fat Alfredo sauce.
• Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to four days and freeze well for longer storage.
• Reheat leftovers in the oven or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
• Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers can increase nutrient content and add texture.
• Dairy-free or reduced-fat cheese alternatives can be used for dietary adjustments without sacrificing too much flavor.
• Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian-style meal.

Keywords: banana pepper chicken, Alfredo bake, creamy pasta casserole, baked pasta dish, Italian comfort food, cheesy chicken bake, penne Alfredo, rigatoni bake