Quick & Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake offers a comforting twist on classic Italian-inspired comfort food.

Pasta lovers will adore this cheesy, hearty dish that comes together with minimal effort.

Mediterranean flavors blend perfectly in this one-pan wonder.

Tender chicken mingles with al dente pasta, creating a mouthwatering combination that feels both familiar and exciting.

Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty depth to every single bite.

Weeknight dinners just became significantly more delicious with this simple yet impressive recipe.

Dive into a meal that promises to satisfy even the pickiest eaters and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Pasta Bake That’s Creamy, Garlicky, and Full of Cheese

Savor Family-Friendly Comfort: Discover why this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake will become your new favorite meal!

• Effortless Preparation: Minimal cooking skills required with straightforward steps that even beginner cooks can master easily.
• Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and gatherings where everyone craves cheesy, satisfying goodness.
• Quick and Convenient: Transforms leftover chicken into a delectable one-dish meal that comes together faster than ordering takeout, minimizing kitchen cleanup and maximizing flavor.
• Customizable Delight: Easily adaptable by swapping proteins, adding vegetables, or adjusting seasonings to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences.

Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bake Ingredients

• Shredded Chicken: Tender protein adding heartiness to the pasta dish.
• Chicken Broth: Rich liquid enhancing overall flavor profile.

• Pasta: Classic base for creamy baked casserole.
• Milk: Smooth base for creating creamy sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Provides rich, melty cheese layers.

• Olive Oil, Butter: Provides rich, smooth cooking foundation.
• Garlic, Minced Garlic: Adds depth and aromatic flavor.
• Flour: Helps thicken sauce.
• Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning: Adds robust herb and garlic notes.
• Black Pepper, Salt: Balances and enhances overall seasoning.
• Parsley: Fresh herb for bright garnish.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake How to Make It

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350°F and give your baking dish a quick spray or butter rub to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook Pasta to Perfection

Boil your pasta in salty water until it reaches that ideal al dente texture. Once done, drain and set aside.

Step 3: Create a Flavor Foundation

• Olive oil
• Butter

Toss in minced garlic and let it dance around for a couple minutes until it releases its aromatic magic.

Step 4: Build a Creamy Sauce Base

• Milk
• Chicken broth

Whisk continuously until the sauce transforms into a dreamy, thick consistency.

Step 5: Season and Cheese It Up

• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Black pepper
• Salt

• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese

Keep stirring until the cheese melts into silky smoothness.

Step 6: Combine All the Goodness

• Cooked pasta
• Shredded chicken
• Garlic-Parmesan sauce

Ensure everything is evenly coated in that irresistible sauce.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

• Remaining mozzarella
• Remaining Parmesan

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for a golden, bubbly cheese topping that’s begging to be devoured.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top and serve piping hot. Get ready for comfort food bliss!

Pasta Bake Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Lovers

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select high-quality chicken, freshly grated Parmesan, and real mozzarella for maximum flavor and creamy texture.
• Control Pasta Texture: Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent mushiness when baking, ensuring a perfect tender-but-firm consistency.
• Boost Protein Variation: Swap chicken with rotisserie chicken, canned tuna, or white beans for flexible protein options that suit different dietary needs.
• Layer Flavor Depth: Toast garlic briefly to enhance its nutty undertones and create a more complex, rich sauce without burning.
• Prevent Dry Dish: Cover with foil during initial baking to retain moisture, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to achieve golden, crispy cheese topping.

Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Properly

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer to freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. Freeze up to 2 months. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Preheat to 350°F. Cover dish with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Add splash of milk to restore creaminess.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Add small amount of milk or broth to maintain sauce consistency.

Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Companions

• Pair Perfectly Crisp White Wine: Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce with their light, refreshing notes that cut through the richness.
• Enhance with Fresh Herb Salad: Toss mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette to provide a bright, tangy contrast against the hearty pasta bake, balancing the dish's heavy texture.
• Create Rustic Garlic Bread Sidekick: Toasted sourdough slices brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with herbs will soak up the delicious sauce and add delightful crunch to the meal.
• Refresh with Sparkling Water Twist: Add a slice of lemon or cucumber to cleanse the palate between bites, helping to cut through the rich, cheesy flavors of the chicken pasta.

Chicken Pasta Bake Ingredient Styles

• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and use gluten-free pasta to create a celiac-friendly version without compromising flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, reducing carbohydrate content while maintaining the creamy garlic Parmesan essence.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut milk instead of regular milk, swap dairy cheeses with nutritional yeast and plant-based cheese alternatives, and select dairy-free butter substitute for lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Protein Boost: Include additional protein sources like diced bacon, sautéed shrimp, or plant-based chicken alternatives to enhance nutritional value and provide more substantial meal options.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta with other short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta. Just ensure they’re cooked al dente to maintain the right texture.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, replace some of the cheese with low-fat alternatives, and add extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli to increase nutritional value.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready to eat. It keeps well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator and reheats nicely.

• Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch?

Definitely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option and adds extra flavor to the dish. Simply shred the meat and mix it into the pasta as directed in the recipe.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

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• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake delivers comfort on a plate, melding tender chicken with al dente pasta and a rich, cheesy sauce. Hearty ingredients and simple preparation make this dish a perfect weeknight dinner that satisfies hunger and delights senses.

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Ingredients

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Main Proteins:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese

Pasta and Base Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup chicken broth

Seasonings and Herbs:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Warm the culinary workspace to 350°F, preparing a spacious rectangular baking vessel with a light grease coating to prevent adherence.
2. Submerge pasta in generously salted liquid, cooking until tender yet firm, then drain thoroughly and reserve.
3. Create a flavor foundation by gently warming olive oil and butter in a substantial cooking vessel, introducing minced garlic and allowing it to release its aromatic essence for brief moments.
4. Integrate flour into the heated mixture, transforming it into a silky roux, then methodically incorporate milk and broth while continuously whisking to develop a smooth, luxurious sauce.
5. Elevate the sauce’s profile by introducing garlic powder, Italian herbal blend, ground pepper, and salt, then fold in grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella until completely melted and harmonized.
6. Merge cooked pasta with tender shredded chicken and the velvety garlic-infused sauce, ensuring each element is comprehensively embraced by the creamy coating.
7. Carefully transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, distributing evenly and crowning with a generous layer of remaining cheese varieties.
8. Position in the preheated oven, allowing the dish to transform for approximately 20-25 minutes until the cheese develops a golden, effervescent crust.
9. Conclude by scattering freshly chopped parsley across the surface and serve while warmth and flavors are at their peak.

Notes

• Substitute gluten-free pasta and flour for a celiac-friendly version without compromising taste or texture.
• Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to save preparation time and add extra flavor depth.
• Reduce sauce calories by using low-fat milk and part-skim mozzarella while maintaining creamy consistency.
• Enhance protein content by adding sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables directly into the pasta mixture for nutritional boost.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 570
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 58 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg