Alfredo Chicken Bake

1 lb. penne

4 tbsp. butter

2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts 

1 tsp. Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon Kosher salt, plus some to season chicken 

1 tsp ground black pepper, plus some to season chicken 

4 cloves garlic, minced

4 tbsp. all-purpose flour

3 c. half-and-half

1/2 c. freshly grated grated Parmesan

1 c. shredded mozzarella

1/4 c. freshly chopped parsley

DIRECTIONS

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain immediately and set aside.

Preheat oven to 350° and spray a large 9"-x-13" baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Season both sides of chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add to skillet and cook until chicken is cooked through, 8 minutes per side. Remove chicken.  Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing crosswise. 

Make sauce: Return skillet over medium heat and melt butter. Add garlic and cook until garlic is fragrant, about 30 seconds. 

Whisk in flour and cook until the mixture is bubbling and golden, 1 minute more. Gradually pour in half-and-half, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and stir in Parmesan, salt and pepper. Let simmer until the sauce thickens, 2 to 3 minutes.

In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, and alfredo sauce. Spread about half of the pasta mixture on the bottom of the baking dish, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with more mozzarella. Bake until bubbly and beginning to brown on top, about 25-30 minutes. 

Garnish with parsley before serving.