Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this baked pasta is the perfect choice. The combination of tender chicken, rich parmesan garlic sauce, and perfectly baked pasta creates a mouthwatering meal that’s easy to prepare.
This dish stands out because of its creamy garlic parmesan sauce, which coats the pasta and chicken in a velvety, cheesy texture. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or pasta! With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients Needed
Essential Ingredients
To make a delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, you’ll need:
- Pasta: Penne, rotini, or rigatoni work best as they hold the sauce well.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for the best flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic for an aromatic punch.
- Heavy Cream: Creates a rich, creamy sauce.
- Butter: Enhances the sauce’s richness.
- Milk: Helps balance the creaminess.
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the sauce.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully for a gooey texture.
- Italian Seasoning: A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme for a balanced flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
- Spinach or Broccoli: For a touch of greens.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little spice.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: For a crispy topping.
- Bacon Bits: Adds a smoky flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a pan and cook the chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked.
- Remove from the pan and let it rest before slicing or shredding.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
- Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, milk, and chicken broth, stirring continuously.
- Add parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into a smooth sauce.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Assemble and Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and the garlic parmesan sauce.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese (and optional breadcrumbs) on top.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Tips for a Perfect Pasta Bake
1. Choosing the Best Cheese Combination
- Use a mix of parmesan and mozzarella for the best melting texture.
- Add a bit of cheddar for extra richness.
2. Preventing Dry Pasta
- Don’t overcook the pasta before baking—it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Keep extra sauce on hand to add moisture if needed.
3. Making It Extra Creamy
- Add a little more heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
- Stir in a tablespoon of butter before baking for an extra glossy texture.
Best Side Dishes to Serve With It
1. Garlic Bread
A classic side that complements the garlicky sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables
Try roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers.
3. Fresh Salads
A crisp Caesar or garden salad balances out the creamy pasta.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Add a splash of milk and microwave in short bursts or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
Healthy Variations and Substitutions
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a lower-fat version.
- Add grilled vegetables for extra nutrients.
Making It Ahead of Time
- Prepare the dish up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge before baking.
- Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken—it can turn dry and tough.
- Using pre-shredded cheese—it contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Forgetting to season properly—taste and adjust as you go!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make it without baking?
Yes! You can serve the pasta right after mixing it with the sauce.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Use half-and-half, Greek yogurt, or cream cheese for a lighter option.
3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers work great.
4. How do I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
5. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! It’s a great shortcut and adds extra flavor.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a delicious and creamy baked pasta dish that combines tender chicken, rich garlic parmesan sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners, this easy pasta bake will become a family favorite. Serve it with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups grated parmesan cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- ½ cup cooked bacon bits
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ cup sautéed mushrooms
- ½ cup spinach or broccoli
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- If using raw chicken, season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook in a pan over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Let it rest before slicing or shredding.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Boil salted water and cook pasta al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, milk, and chicken broth.
- Add parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Assemble and Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and sauce in a large bowl.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
Don’t overcook the pasta before baking—it will continue cooking in the oven.
For a crispy topping, add a layer of breadcrumbs before baking.
For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or extra butter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes