This paper presents an experimental investigation of Laser Assisted Machining (LAM) of Inconel 718 using turning process. The experiments were planned according to Taguchi L9 orthogonal array of experimental design. The effects of laser cutting parameters, namely cutting speed, feed rate and laser power are considered as control factors to determine the effects on cutting forces and cutting temperature. The cutting tool used for machining is a multi-layered (TiCN/Al2O3/TiN) coated carbide insert. The optimal cutting conditions were determined using the Taguchi's Signal-to-Noise (S/N) ratio. The analysis of results reveals that cutting speed and laser power has maximum influence on the cutting force components compared to feed rate. It was also observed that there is no change in the hardness value (48 HRc) of the machined surface due to laser heating. Finally, the cutting forces were compared between conventional and laser assisted machining; a maximum of 60% reduction of cutting force was observed for LAM at optimal combinations. © 2014 Published by Elsevier Ltd.