Savory Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe for Cozy Nights

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake delivers pure comfort on a plate.

Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce come together in one delightful casserole.

Each forkful promises layers of savory goodness that’ll make everyone at the table happy.

Melted parmesan creates a golden, crispy top that adds irresistible texture to every bite.

The combination of herbs and garlic infuses the dish with incredible depth and warmth.

Cheese lovers and pasta enthusiasts will absolutely adore this crowd-pleasing meal.

Grab a fork and savor every single delicious mouthful of this ultimate comfort food.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Standouts

• Customize Your Comfort: Perfect for adapting with ingredients you already have in your kitchen, making this recipe super flexible for busy home cooks.
• Crowd-Pleasing Champion: A guaranteed winner for family dinners and potlucks, this cheesy pasta bake satisfies everyone from kids to adults with its creamy, flavorful profile.
• Quick and Hearty Meal: Delivers a complete dinner in just a few simple steps, combining protein, pasta, and rich sauce into one delicious dish that requires minimal kitchen effort.
• Weeknight Dinner Hero: Transforms basic ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal without complicated techniques, allowing home cooks to create something special without stress or extensive cooking skills.

Ingredients For Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

• Chicken: Lean protein that adds heartiness and flavor to the pasta dish.

• Pasta: Serves as the comforting base of the recipe that absorbs the creamy sauce.

• Parmesan Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Provide rich, melty texture and a deep savory flavor profile.

• Heavy Cream, Chicken Broth: Create a smooth and luxurious sauce base for the pasta.

• Garlic, Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Enhance the overall taste and add depth to the dish.

• Butter: Helps create a rich foundation for sautéing and adds a smooth flavor.

• Parsley: Adds a fresh, bright finish and visual appeal to the completed dish.

How To Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prep the Oven

Crank up your oven to a toasty 375°F, getting it ready for the delicious magic about to happen.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta following the package directions until perfectly al dente.

Drain and set aside, ready to soak up all the amazing flavors.

Step 3: Sizzle the Chicken

• Chicken pieces
• Salt
• Black pepper

Cook until the chicken is beautifully browned and cooked through.

Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

Step 4: Create the Magical Sauce

• Garlic
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Italian seasoning

Sauté the garlic until it becomes wonderfully fragrant.

Pour in the cream, broth, and seasoning.

Let it simmer and dance for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Cheese It Up

Stir in the Parmesan cheese and watch the sauce transform into a creamy, dreamy masterpiece.

Keep cooking until it thickens to perfection.

Step 6: Combine the Goodness

Toss the cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce, mixing everything until each piece is gloriously coated.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the entire mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish.

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top like a blanket of cheesy happiness.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Wait for the cheese to bubble and turn a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top.

Serve piping hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up with excitement!

Handy Tips For Pasta Bake Perfection

• Select high-quality chicken breasts and freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor and creamy texture.
• Slightly undercook pasta during initial boiling since it will continue cooking in the oven, ensuring perfectly al dente results.
• Simmer sauce slowly and stir continuously to achieve a smooth, creamy texture without separation or burning.
• Allow dish to rest 5-10 minutes after baking to help cheese set and create beautiful golden-brown cheese crust.
• Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for lighter version, and use gluten-free pasta for celiac-friendly option.

Creative Twists On Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bake

• Gluten-Free Pasta Delight: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free penne or rotini for those with wheat sensitivities, maintaining the same creamy sauce and chicken goodness.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with roasted cauliflower or chickpeas, keeping the garlic Parmesan cream sauce and baking method intact.
• Low-Carb Zucchini Version: Use spiralized zucchini noodles instead of pasta, reducing carbohydrates while preserving the rich, cheesy flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap heavy cream and cheeses with coconut cream and nutritional yeast, creating a similar texture and taste for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Best Ways To Serve Chicken Pasta Bake

• Hearty Family Feast: Serve this creamy chicken pasta bake with a crisp green salad tossed in light vinaigrette for a balanced meal that everyone will love.
• Bread Lover's Delight: Pair with warm garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious cheesy sauce and add extra texture to your dinner.
• Fresh Veggie Companion: Add roasted broccoli or sautéed zucchini on the side to boost nutritional value and bring vibrant colors to your plate, creating a complete and satisfying meal.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Complement the rich, creamy flavors with a chilled glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for an elegant dining experience.

Storing Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bake Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Transfer cooled pasta bake to a freezer-safe container, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months, preventing freezer burn by removing excess air.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying, and heat at 50% power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, cover the dish with foil to retain moisture, warm for 15-20 minutes until heated completely, removing foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the cheese.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine. Just ensure they are similar in size to maintain the right pasta-to-sauce ratio.

• Is it possible to make this dish healthier?

Try using whole wheat pasta, reducing the cheese amount, or substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or milk to lower the calorie content.

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the pasta bake up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and cheese is golden.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

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4.6 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake delivers comfort and flavor in one hearty dish, combining crispy chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. Savory ingredients unite for a satisfying meal that brings warmth and joy to your dinner table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds/680 grams)
• 1.5 cups grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Pasta and Base:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) penne or rigatoni pasta
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1.5 cups heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Seasonings and Extras:

• 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried italian seasoning
• 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 375°F, preparing a welcoming environment for the cheesy pasta creation.
2. Boil pasta in salted water until perfectly al dente, then drain thoroughly and reserve.
3. Select a large skillet and melt butter over medium-high heat, creating a golden cooking surface.
4. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sear until golden brown and completely cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
5. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside, keeping the flavorful pan drippings.
6. Reduce heat to medium and sauté minced garlic until aromatic and slightly translucent.
7. Pour heavy cream, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning into the skillet, allowing the mixture to simmer and develop rich flavors for 5 minutes.
8. Incorporate Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce transforms into a thick, creamy consistency.
9. Fold cooked pasta and seared chicken into the velvety sauce, ensuring every morsel is generously coated.
10. Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish, spreading evenly.
11. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese across the top, creating a luxurious melted blanket.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns a tempting golden brown.
13. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

• Prep chicken ahead by marinating in garlic and herbs for deeper flavor intensity and more tender meat.
• Consider using whole wheat pasta for added nutrition and a slightly nutty undertone that complements the creamy sauce.
• Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt to reduce calories while maintaining a rich, creamy texture.
• Toast breadcrumbs with herbs and sprinkle on top before baking for an extra crispy, golden-brown crunchy layer that adds textural contrast.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 505 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 41 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg