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