Star Student Alfredo Bake

Step 1 -Cook the pasta to al dente according to the package directions.

Step 2 -Drain the water from the pot and set it aside.

Step 3 -Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 4 -Butter a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 5 -Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 6 -Season both sides of the chicken with the Italian seasoning, the salt, and the pepper.

Step 7 -Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until the internal temperature of the thickest part reads 145 degrees F, about 8 minutes per side.

Step 8 -Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 9 -Carefully wipe the skillet clean of grease.

Step 10 -Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice crosswise.

Step 11 -Return the skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.

Step 12 -Add the garlic and the garlic powder to the melted butter and cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 13 -Whisk the flour into the butter mixture and cook until bubbling and golden, about 1 minute.

Step 14 -Gradually pour the half-and-half into the butter mixture, whisking constantly.

Step 15 -Bring the sauce mixture to a simmer and stir in the parmesan.

Step 16 -Let the sauce simmer until it thickens, about 1 minute, then season with the salt and the pepper.

Step 17 -Transfer the sauce away from the heat.

Step 18 -In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the cooked chicken, and the alfredo sauce.

Step 19 -Spread 1/2 of the pasta mixture on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Step 20 -Sprinkle the pasta mixture with 1/2 of the mozzarella.

Step 21 -Repeat the layers starting with the pasta mixture.

Step 22 -Bake, uncovered, until the cheese is melty and bubbly, about 15 minutes.

Step 23 -Slice, garnish with the parsley, and serve.