Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This delicious recipe features tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, all baked together with a golden, cheesy topping. It’s an easy yet indulgent meal that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy, and cheesy pasta dish, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the answer. It combines tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that’s full of flavor. Baked to golden, bubbly perfection, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy weekend meal, this pasta bake is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook until they are no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and whisk to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly golden.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Bake
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the sauce, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake the Pasta
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad.
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Pasta: Cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly while baking in the oven.
- Chicken: You can use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time—just stir it in with the sauce and pasta before baking.
- Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.
Variations
- Vegetable Addition: Add 1 cup of steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to the pasta mixture before baking for extra nutrition.
- Bacon Twist: Add 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the pasta for a smoky flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled (unbaked) pasta bake. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
4. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes, you can use any short pasta shape, such as fusilli, farfalle, or ziti, in this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans for added nutrition.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The golden, bubbly cheese on top adds the perfect finishing touch, making every bite delicious and satisfying. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this creamy pasta bake!
