The Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe for Dinner

Whipping up a mouthwatering garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake never felt so effortless or delicious.

Creamy cheese melts perfectly around tender chicken pieces nestled between pasta spirals.

Home cooks adore this comforting dish that brings serious flavor to weeknight dinners.

Rich parmesan creates a golden, crispy topping that makes everyone crave seconds.

Aromatic garlic infuses each bite with a warm, inviting essence that promises satisfaction.

Minimal ingredients combine for maximum enjoyment, making this recipe a true kitchen champion.

One forkful and you’ll understand why this pasta bake becomes an instant family favorite.

FAQs

• What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini will work perfectly, holding the creamy sauce well and creating a delicious texture.

• Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this dish?

Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken are excellent time-saving options that will blend seamlessly into the recipe.

• Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute regular flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free pasta to create a celiac-friendly version of the recipe.

• How can I add more vegetables to this pasta bake?

Consider mixing in spinach, roasted bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms before baking to boost the nutritional value and add extra flavor to the dish.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake – Cheesy Goodness

• Streamline Dinner Prep: Combine ingredients in one bowl, pour into a baking dish, and top with biscuits for a quick and hassle-free meal that saves precious cooking time.
• Comfort Food Champion: Packed with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and cheesy goodness, this casserole delivers classic comfort food flavors that warm the heart and satisfy hungry families.
• Kid-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Featuring familiar ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and biscuits, this dish appeals to picky eaters and provides a nutritious meal everyone will enjoy without complex cooking techniques.
• Flexible Meal Solution: Easily adaptable with different vegetables or cheese options, making it perfect for using pantry staples and creating a delicious dinner with minimal planning.

What Goes in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

• Pasta: A classic base that provides hearty texture and substance to the dish.

• Chicken: The main protein that adds richness and makes the meal satisfying.

• Parmesan Cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Creates a melty, golden topping that adds creamy indulgence.

• Butter: Provides a rich, smooth foundation for the creamy sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Delivers a luxurious and velvety texture to the sauce.
• Flour: Helps thicken the sauce and create a smooth consistency.

• Garlic: Adds a deep, aromatic flavor that complements the chicken and cheese.
• Basil: Introduces a fresh, herbal note to the dish.
• Black Pepper: Offers a subtle heat and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Salt: Balances and heightens the taste of all ingredients.

• Fresh Parsley: Provides a bright, fresh finish to the baked pasta.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Directions

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350F (175C) and get ready for some serious comfort food magic.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.

Drain and set aside, keeping it ready for its cheesy destiny.

Step 3: Sizzle the Butter and Garlic

Grab a large skillet and melt the butter over medium heat.

Toss in the minced garlic and let it dance around until it releases its aromatic charm.

Step 4: Create the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and give it a good stir.

Let it cook for a quick 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden hue, creating a smooth base for your sauce.

Step 5: Whisk in the Cream

Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking like a pro to ensure a silky-smooth sauce with zero lumps.

Step 6: Build the Flavor Profile

• Parmesan cheese
• Basil
• Black pepper
• Salt

Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes irresistibly creamy.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Pasta

Mix the cooked chicken and pasta into the luscious sauce, ensuring every morsel is coated with flavor.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and crown it with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Watch for that golden, bubbly cheese that signals pure deliciousness.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top if you’re feeling fancy.

Serve piping hot and prepare for flavor explosion!

Top Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creamier sauce texture.
• Let the pasta cook just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
• Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easier preparation and more consistent results.
• Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version of the dish.
• Add red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat if you enjoy spicier pasta bakes.

Switch Up Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Flavors

• Mediterranean Chicken Pasta: Replace Parmesan with crumbled feta cheese, add sun-dried tomatoes, and sprinkle oregano for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta: Mix in buffalo sauce, use blue cheese instead of mozzarella, and top with chopped green onions for a zesty kick.
• Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake: Swap cream sauce with homemade basil pesto, add roasted pine nuts, and use provolone cheese for an herbal, rich version.
• Vegetable Loaded Chicken Pasta: Incorporate roasted zucchini, spinach, and bell peppers into the mixture for extra nutrition and color.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake for Dinner

• Cozy Family Dinner Delight: Serve this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta bake with a crisp garden salad and warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Casual Weeknight Entertaining: Present the dish in a beautiful cast-iron skillet directly from the oven, adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a restaurant-style presentation that will impress guests.
• Meal Prep Champion: Portion the pasta bake into individual containers for easy lunch prep, ensuring a delectable midday meal that reheats perfectly and keeps flavors intact.
• Potluck Party Star: Transfer the pasta bake to a portable casserole dish with a secure lid, making it an ideal crowd-pleasing contribution to community gatherings or family reunions.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake – Saving Leftovers

• Store leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid to prevent moisture loss and preserve flavor.
• Transfer cooled pasta bake to a freezer-safe container or wrap securely in aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
• Place refrigerated pasta bake in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm at 350F for 15-20 minutes. Remove foil during last 5 minutes to restore cheese's crispy texture.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

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4.6 from 30 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake brings comfort and flavor to dinner tables with its creamy, cheesy goodness. Layers of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and rich sauce will have you craving seconds with each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups chicken, shredded or cubed
• 3 cups pasta (penne or rotini)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsps butter
• 2 tbsps all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating it to 350F (175C), creating an ideal environment for baking the pasta dish.
2. Cook pasta in boiling water until it reaches al dente texture, then drain completely and set aside for later integration.
3. Activate a large skillet over medium heat, melting butter until it becomes smooth and fragrant.
4. Introduce minced garlic to the butter, sautéing until its aromatic essence permeates the pan.
5. Sprinkle flour into the butter-garlic mixture, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes to develop a light golden roux.
6. Slowly incorporate heavy cream, whisking methodically to prevent any lump formation and create a silky smooth base.
7. Blend in Parmesan cheese, basil, black pepper, and salt, stirring consistently until the sauce reaches a luxurious, thick consistency.
8. Gently fold cooked chicken and prepared pasta into the creamy sauce, ensuring every morsel is thoroughly coated.
9. Transfer the integrated mixture to a baking dish, creating an even layer for consistent heating.
10. Generously sprinkle mozzarella cheese across the top, providing a golden, melty crown to the dish.
11. Position the baking dish in the preheated oven, allowing 20-25 minutes for the cheese to transform into a bubbling, golden masterpiece.
12. Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finishing touch before serving the piping hot pasta bake.

Notes

• Customize the pasta type to match personal preferences or dietary needs, like gluten-free or whole wheat options.
• Reduce sauce calories by substituting half-and-half or milk for heavy cream without compromising rich flavor.
• Prep chicken ahead by grilling, baking, or using rotisserie meat to save time during meal preparation.
• Create vegetarian version by replacing chicken with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 550 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 135 mg