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