If ever there was a dish that spells pure comfort and joy, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is it! Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-inviting, this bubbling casserole blends tender chicken, savory garlic, and a golden cloud of melty cheese with every satisfying forkful. It’s the sort of meal you pull out of the oven and watch your family gather around, unable to resist that irresistible aroma. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a celebration, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake never fails to bring everyone back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish comes from using familiar, uncomplicated ingredients—each one playing its special role in building amazing flavor and that signature creamy-cheesy bite. Gather these essentials and you’ll be halfway to pasta bake bliss!
- 12 oz penne pasta: Penne holds onto every bit of luscious sauce, making each bite hearty and satisfying.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For browning chicken perfectly and adding a subtle richness to the base.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: Lean, juicy, and ideal for soaking up all those flavors.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The hero ingredient—minced fresh to let that unmistakable aroma shine through.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a touch of silky flavor to the sauce and balances the garlic.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The key to thickening the sauce for that luxe, creamy texture.
- 2 cups whole milk: Classic whole milk gives the sauce velvety richness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For rich decadence—though you can swap with half-and-half for a lighter bake.
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan brings the unmistakable nutty sharpness that makes this pasta bake irresistible.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing the flavors and bringing everything together.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Lends a hint of herbaceous depth, tying the pizza-parlor aroma into every bite.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts into a perfectly gooey, golden layer over top.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Just a sprinkle wakes up the finished dish with freshness and color.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta just until al dente. This is important—undercook it ever so slightly so your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake doesn’t get mushy as it bakes. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Sauté and Season the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning right in the pan so the flavors meld as they cook. Sauté the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden on the outside and cooked through in the center, about 6 to 8 minutes. Move the chicken out of the skillet and onto a plate so you can use the same skillet for your sauce (hello, flavor!).
Step 3: Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same pan, melt the butter and then stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about a minute, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned—this is where the “garlic” in “Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake” shines. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to make a quick roux; this will help create a smooth and thick sauce. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, keeping the sauce moving so it doesn’t clump. Let it come to a gentle simmer and thicken, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the Parmesan and Return the Chicken
Add the grated Parmesan cheese right into the bubbling sauce, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes rich and glossy. Return the cooked chicken (and its juices!) to the skillet, tossing to coat every piece in garlicky, cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Mix Together and Assemble
Gently fold the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring every piece is wrapped in sauce and studded with tender chicken. Pour everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread out evenly. Top generously with shredded mozzarella—this cheese will turn gooey and beautifully golden once baked.
Step 6: Bake to Bubbly Perfection
Slide the baking dish into your preheated 375°F oven and let it bake for about 20–25 minutes. When the top is bubbly and flecked with golden brown spots, your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is ready for its big moment!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Scatter fresh chopped parsley over the bubbling casserole right before serving. That pop of green makes the whole dish look extra inviting and adds a clean, herbal finish to every cheesy bite.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
Garnishes
A final flourish of chopped parsley is a must—it adds freshness and a burst of color. If you’re feeling fancy, a dusting of extra Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes will take your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake over the top. For a fun twist, try a little lemon zest for unexpected zip!
Side Dishes
Because it’s so rich and hearty on its own, this pasta bake pairs beautifully with lighter sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances everything out, or you can serve it with roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Don’t forget a warm loaf of garlic bread—perfect for mopping up extra sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
Transform this family-style classic into individual servings by baking in smaller ramekins for a dinner party. Or, scoop the creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake into hollowed-out bread bowls for a comfort food feast with flair. Hosting a potluck? Transfer the bake into a slow cooker on warm—guests can scoop up their own portions all night long.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool leftovers to room temperature, then transfer your pasta bake into an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to four days—making weekday lunches or easy dinners a snap! You’ll find that the flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers something to look forward to.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake. Just assemble the casserole but hold off on baking and garnishing. Wrap tightly (try two layers of plastic wrap and foil) and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
To bring the magic back, reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven, covered with foil until warmed through (about 15–20 minutes). For smaller servings, the microwave works in a pinch—just add a splash of milk or water to keep things creamy, and heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a wonderful shortcut to save time. Just stir it into the sauce after you make it, and your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake will still taste amazing.
Can I swap the pasta shape?
Yes, almost any small, sturdy pasta shape will work—try rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli if you like. Just avoid delicate varieties that get mushy when baked.
Is there a way to make it lighter?
For a lighter version, use half-and-half in place of the heavy cream, skip a little of the mozzarella on top, or add extra veggies like steamed spinach or broccoli right into the mix.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply leave out the chicken and toss in sautéed mushrooms, broccoli, or spinach. The sauce is rich enough to make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake satisfying, even with just veggies!
Can I assemble the pasta bake ahead of time?
Definitely! Assemble everything the night before, cover tightly, and store in the fridge. When ready, bake straight from the fridge—just add a few extra minutes to your bake time for best results.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about pulling a bubbling, golden dish of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake out of the oven. Whether you’re sharing it with friends on a busy weeknight or treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is meant to be enjoyed and shared. Give it a try—you’ll see exactly why it’s destined to become a new staple in your comfort food rotation!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, a creamy and cheesy dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. Tender chicken in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, combined with penne pasta and topped with melty mozzarella, this baked pasta dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Additional:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Cook chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil, add chicken pieces, season, and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Make sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, add garlic, stir in flour, then whisk in milk and cream until thickened. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
- Combine and bake: Toss chicken in sauce, mix with pasta, pour into baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake for 20–25 minutes.
- Garnish: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Add steamed broccoli or spinach for extra veggies.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
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