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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- Warm the culinary workspace to 350°F, preparing a spacious rectangular baking vessel with a light grease coating to prevent adherence.
- Submerge pasta in generously salted liquid, cooking until tender yet firm, then drain thoroughly and reserve.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Merge cooked pasta with tender shredded chicken and the velvety garlic-infused sauce, ensuring each element is comprehensively embraced by the creamy coating.
- Carefully transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, distributing evenly and crowning with a generous layer of remaining cheese varieties.
- Position in the preheated oven, allowing the dish to transform for approximately 20-25 minutes until the cheese develops a golden, effervescent crust.
- 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