Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Introduction

Sometimes you just need a meal that feels like a big, warm hug. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is exactly that. Imagine tender pieces of chicken, enveloped in a velvety garlic Parmesan sauce, mixed with perfectly cooked pasta and topped with a golden, crispy layer of cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food, and it’s super simple to make!

This recipe became a go-to in my house after a particularly hectic week when all I wanted was something easy yet delicious. The creamy sauce, the garlic, the tender chicken – it was everything I needed to melt the stress away. Since then, it’s become a favorite for family dinners and cozy gatherings, and it’s even been requested at potlucks!

So, if you’re ready to try a pasta bake that brings all the warm, home-cooked vibes, let’s dive in. With a handful of ingredients and just a little time, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and cream gives this bake an indulgent texture that feels both cozy and decadent.
• Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples – no need for a special grocery run!
• Family-Friendly: It’s mild and savory, perfect for both kids and adults.
• Easy to Make: With minimal prep, it’s perfect for a quick dinner, yet impressive enough for guests.
• Leftover Magic: It reheats beautifully, so any leftovers make for a great next-day lunch!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: 450 kcal

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake:

• 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work great – they hold the sauce well)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste if you love garlic as much as I do!)
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2% milk works best for creaminess)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Extra Flavor:

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• ¼ cup fresh basil or thyme, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a large baking dish with a bit of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Pasta

• Boil a pot of water, adding a generous pinch of salt for flavor.
• Cook the pasta according to package directions until just al dente (it’ll cook more in the oven, so don’t overdo it). Drain and set aside.

3. Sear the Chicken

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
• Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the hot skillet.
• Sear for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is golden and just cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

4. Sauté the Garlic

• In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, then add the minced garlic.
• Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown (burnt garlic can add a bitter taste).

5. Make the Cream Sauce

• Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring gently to incorporate with the garlic.
• Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken for about 3-4 minutes.
• Add the Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until it melts into the sauce, creating a thick, creamy consistency.

6. Combine Chicken and Pasta

• Add the seared chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring until everything is coated in that creamy garlic Parmesan goodness.
• Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. A pinch more salt or pepper might bring it all together!

7. Assemble the Bake

• Pour the pasta and sauce mixture into the greased baking dish.
• Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. For extra Parmesan lovers, add an extra sprinkle here!

8. Bake to Golden Perfection

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
• If you want a crispier, golden top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

9. Garnish and Serve

• Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

How to Serve

• Main Dish: Serve as the star of the meal alongside a light side salad or steamed vegetables.
• Bread Side: Pair with garlic bread or a baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Family Style: Bring the baking dish straight to the table and serve family-style for easy, cozy dining.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic gives this dish its rich, aromatic flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works, but fresh is best!
• Watch the Cheese: Mozzarella browns quickly, so keep an eye on the oven during the last few minutes.
• Let it Sit: After baking, let the pasta bake rest for a few minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to settle.
• Customize the Cheese: Mix in shredded cheddar or gouda for extra cheesiness and depth.
• Save Time with Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, swap the chicken breast for shredded rotisserie chicken.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for a veggie-packed version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your ingredients are gluten-free.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes for a bolder flavor.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in roasted bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for more flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the creaminess perfectly.
• Soup Pairing: Serve with a simple broth-based soup, like vegetable or chicken noodle, for a balanced meal.
• Kid-Friendly Option: Skip the red pepper flakes and serve with simple buttered rolls.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Allow the pasta bake to cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, adding a bit of extra cream or milk if needed to restore creaminess.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: For searing the chicken and making the sauce.
• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish works well for this amount.
• Cheese Grater: Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor and texture.

FAQ Section

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can use whole milk for a lighter sauce, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich or creamy as it would be with heavy cream. To thicken it, you could add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step. Cover it with foil and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

What type of pasta works best?
Short, sturdy pastas like penne, rotini, or rigatoni work best in this bake, as they hold the sauce well and provide a good bite. However, you can substitute with any pasta you have on hand.

Can I freeze the pasta bake?
Yes! Allow the baked dish to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in the oven at 350°F, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed.

How can I add more vegetables?
You can easily add vegetables to this bake without much extra effort. Spinach, broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms would be fantastic additions. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream.

What cheese works best for the topping?
Mozzarella is ideal because it melts so beautifully, creating that irresistible cheesy top layer. You can also mix it with a bit of cheddar or Gruyère for more flavor.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Definitely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure that any thickening agents, such as flour, are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

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Conclusion

I hope this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake becomes a hit in your home just like it has in mine! There’s something magical about pulling a bubbly, golden pasta bake out of the oven, especially on a chilly evening. The aroma of garlic and cheese fills the house, and it’s just so satisfying to see everyone around the table enjoying it.

Whether it’s for a family dinner, a cozy night in with friends, or meal prep for the week, this dish truly shines. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable, so you can put your own twist on it each time. Serve it with a simple side salad and some garlic bread for a full meal, or bring it as a comforting dish to share at a potluck.

So go ahead, dive into this creamy, cheesy goodness! Don’t forget to share your creations and let me know if you make any fun changes. Happy cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use whole milk for a lighter sauce, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich or creamy as it would be with heavy cream. To thicken it, you could add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step. Cover it with foil and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

What type of pasta works best?

Short, sturdy pastas like penne, rotini, or rigatoni work best in this bake, as they hold the sauce well and provide a good bite. However, you can substitute with any pasta you have on hand.

Can I freeze the pasta bake?

Yes! Allow the baked dish to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in the oven at 350°F, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed.

How can I add more vegetables?

You can easily add vegetables to this bake without much extra effort. Spinach, broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms would be fantastic additions. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream.

What cheese works best for the topping?

Mozzarella is ideal because it melts so beautifully, creating that irresistible cheesy top layer. You can also mix it with a bit of cheddar or Gruyère for more flavor.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Definitely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure that any thickening agents, such as flour, are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

I hope this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake becomes a hit in your home just like it has in mine! There’s something magical about pulling a bubbly, golden pasta bake out of the oven, especially on a chilly evening. The aroma of garlic and cheese fills the house, and it’s just so satisfying to see everyone around the table enjoying it.

Whether it’s for a family dinner, a cozy night in with friends, or meal prep for the week, this dish truly shines. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable, so you can put your own twist on it each time. Serve it with a simple side salad and some garlic bread for a full meal, or bring it as a comforting dish to share at a potluck.

So go ahead, dive into this creamy, cheesy goodness! Don’t forget to share your creations and let me know if you make any fun changes. Happy cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!