Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect comfort food, combining tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce all baked to golden perfection. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a creamy, cheesy pasta bake that the whole family will love.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a baked pasta dish. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and melted cheese makes this Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake a hit at the dinner table. This recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s both flavorful and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a dish for a gathering, this pasta bake is sure to please.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Chicken:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or sour cream)
For Baking:
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, continuing to stir until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Stir in the heavy cream or sour cream to add extra richness to the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until well combined.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce.
- Stir until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Pasta Bake
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a large baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake the Pasta
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Chicken Pasta Bake.
Cook’s Notes
- Choosing the Pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta works well for this dish as they hold the sauce nicely and bake evenly.
- Chicken Alternatives: If you prefer, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs or even cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Variations
Spicy Chicken Pasta Bake
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the garlic Parmesan sauce for a spicy kick.
Vegetable-Loaded Pasta Bake
Incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli into the pasta and chicken mixture before baking for added nutrition.
Bacon Chicken Pasta Bake
Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the pasta mixture before baking for a smoky, savory twist.
Gluten-Free Chicken Pasta Bake
Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish gluten-free.
Lighter Chicken Pasta Bake
Use low-fat milk and skip the heavy cream for a lighter version of this dish. You can also reduce the amount of cheese used for a lower-calorie option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
2. Can I freeze the Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Assemble the pasta bake and freeze it before baking. When ready to cook, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 35-45 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
3. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano or a mix of shredded Italian cheeses as a substitute.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
5. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie chicken. Simply add it to the sauce and pasta, and proceed with the recipe as directed.
6. What other cheeses can I use?
You can use a blend of cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère to change up the flavor profile.
This Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich garlic Parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and melted cheese, it’s a meal that everyone will love. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust it to suit dietary preferences. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this pasta bake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delicious results of this creamy, cheesy pasta bake.
