If you’re searching for a family-friendly weeknight dinner that’s pure comfort in every bite, look no further than this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake. This irresistible casserole is loaded with tender chicken, golden pasta, and the dreamiest garlic-Parmesan sauce, all crowned with a bubbly, cheesy topping. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with big smiles and second helpings, and it’s sure to become a regular in your kitchen lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simple, familiar ingredients, each one playing a crucial role in creating maximum flavor and that signature creamy texture. Gather these pantry and fridge staples, and you’ll be well on your way to pasta bake heaven.
- 12 ounces penne pasta: The perfect shape for holding onto all that luscious sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the chicken brown beautifully.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Lean, protein-packed, and soaks up all the savory flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and depth.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant herbal note to the chicken.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base for a creamy, flavorful roux.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the show, infusing the sauce with bold flavor.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce for that perfect, velvety finish.
- 2 cups whole milk: Lends creaminess without being too heavy.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Takes the sauce over the top with richness.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and keeps the sauce from being too thick.
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese, divided: Salty, nutty, and melts beautifully—it’s the heart of the dish.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts into gooey perfection on top and inside the bake.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick of heat, if you like it spicy.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: A pop of color and freshness for the final touch.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks. Cook the penne pasta in a big pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. Remember, the pasta will cook a bit more in the oven, so don’t overdo it. Drain and set it aside—you’re already on your way to a fabulous Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake!
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then add them to the skillet. Sauté for 6 to 8 minutes until the chicken is golden on the outside and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside—you want every piece to stay juicy and flavorful.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic, stirring for about a minute until fragrant (this is where the kitchen starts to smell amazing). Sprinkle in the flour and cook for another minute, whisking constantly to form a smooth roux. Slowly pour in the milk, heavy cream, and chicken broth, whisking all the while to keep things lump-free. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce—this usually takes about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of the grated Parmesan and 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella. Keep mixing until the cheeses melt into the sauce, making it irresistibly smooth and dreamy. If you like a bit of heat, now’s the time to toss in those red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked pasta and browned chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Gently fold everything together so each piece of pasta and chicken is coated in that glorious, cheesy garlic sauce. This is the moment you realize just how comforting Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is going to be!
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Pour the saucy mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella over the top, creating a cheesy blanket that will turn gorgeously golden in the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until everything is bubbling and beautifully browned on top.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake emerges from the oven, shower it with chopped fresh parsley. Let it rest for a few minutes so it sets up perfectly, then dig in and enjoy every creamy, garlicky forkful!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a must—it adds a pop of color and an herby brightness that balances the richness of the pasta bake. For extra flair, you can grate a little extra Parmesan over the top or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who love a touch of heat.
Side Dishes
This pasta bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. Don’t forget a basket of warm, crusty bread or garlic knots to help scoop up every last bit of that luscious sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake straight from the baking dish at the table. If you’re entertaining, divide it into individual ramekins for a personal touch, or garnish each serving with a little extra parsley and cracked black pepper for a restaurant-worthy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake stores like a dream. Just let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or quick lunches.
Freezing
This pasta bake is freezer-friendly, too! Assemble everything up to the point of baking, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated through.
Reheating
To reheat, place portions in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Warm in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly, about 20 minutes. For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk before reheating. You can also microwave individual servings, stirring halfway through for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding onto the sauce, you can use rigatoni, ziti, rotini, or any short pasta you have on hand. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t get too soft during baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour for the sauce. The dish will still turn out creamy and delicious.
Can I add vegetables to the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?
Definitely. Stir in fresh spinach, steamed broccoli, or sautéed mushrooms right before combining the pasta and chicken with the sauce. They’ll add color, nutrients, and even more flavor.
What’s the best way to make this dish ahead for a party?
Assemble everything up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to a day in advance. When you’re ready to serve, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to heat through.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch?
You sure can! Shred about 3 cups of rotisserie chicken and stir it in at the same step as the cooked chicken. It’s a great shortcut for busy nights without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving pure comfort and a dinner sure to impress, you just can’t go wrong with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake. It’s hearty, cheesy, and guaranteed to become a favorite around your table—so grab your ingredients and treat yourself to a truly delicious homemade meal!
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce baked to bubbly perfection. Ideal for a hearty family dinner or meal prep, it’s loaded with cheese and seasoned with Italian herbs for authentic Italian-American taste.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Chicken
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water, cook the penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook chicken for 6 to 8 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Add liquids: Gradually whisk in whole milk, heavy cream, and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes until sauce thickens smoothly.
- Add cheese and seasoning: Stir in 1 cup Parmesan and 1 cup mozzarella cheese until melted. If desired, add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Combine pasta and chicken with sauce: Add cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce, stirring gently to coat evenly.
- Assemble and bake: Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan and 1/2 cup mozzarella evenly over the top.
- Bake to finish: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown on top.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top, and serve hot for a creamy, cheesy delight.
Notes
- For extra nutrition, add vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms before baking.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
- You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli if preferred.
- Adjust seasoning and red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 31 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 47 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
