Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food dinner, look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake. Creamy homemade sauce, juicy chicken, melty cheese, and perfectly baked pasta come together in a show-stopping casserole that’s both family-friendly and downright irresistible. A golden cheesy topping hides a cozy, creamy interior, and each forkful is loaded with flavor, thanks to the marriage of garlic and Parmesan. This is the dish you’ll want to serve for weeknights, gatherings, or when you need a little taste of home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how a few basic ingredients transform into such a sensational dish. Each addition plays a vital role: from building flavor and a creamy sauce to giving that irresistible golden finish. Here’s what makes this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake so special:

• Pasta: Short shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini hold the sauce beautifully and bake up perfectly tender.
• Olive oil: Adds flavor to the chicken and helps brown it for that juicy, golden finish.
• Chicken breasts: Lean protein that soaks up the garlicky, cheesy flavors for hearty bites throughout.
• Garlic: Four fresh cloves create the aromatic backbone—don’t skip it!
• Butter: Provides richness and helps develop the velvety sauce.
• All-purpose flour: The secret to thickening the sauce and making it irresistibly creamy.
• Milk: Whole or 2% both work great, lending silkiness and body to the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Deepens flavor and keeps the casserole tasting homemade.
• Italian seasoning: An all-in-one boost of herbs for savory depth.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a gentle kick of heat as a subtle background note.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best—it’s the soul of the sauce and the topping!
• Mozzarella cheese: Adds that gooey, stretchy cheese layer everyone loves.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for rounding out and balancing all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley: Brightens up the finished dish and adds just the right pop of color.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so everything’s ready to go when you are. Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until just al dente—you want it to have a little bite since it’ll finish baking in the oven later. Drain it well and set it aside while you prep the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Let the pieces cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Scoop the chicken out onto a plate, but keep the flavorful juices and browned bits in the skillet—they’ll give the sauce a flavor boost.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add your minced garlic. Let it sauté for about a minute, just until your kitchen is filled with that irresistible garlicky aroma. Whisk in the flour to make a roux; this will thicken your sauce and keep it silky. Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking the whole time to prevent lumps, then let it simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened. Stir in Italian seasoning, a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat, and a cup of Parmesan cheese until smooth and lush. Taste and season as you like with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine and Assemble

Add your cooked pasta and sautéed chicken to the pan with the sauce, giving everything a good toss to ensure each piece is coated in that creamy goodness. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Now sprinkle it all over with mozzarella cheese and the remaining half cup of Parmesan for a bubbling, golden finish.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Slide your casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese on top is gloriously melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden. Once it’s out, shower the top with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for—serve it up hot and savor every cheesy, garlicky bite!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Garnishes

A scattering of chopped fresh parsley before serving not only adds vibrant green color but also a fresh, herby lift that balances the richness of the casserole. For a touch of elegance and extra cheese pull, try a little more freshly grated Parmesan just as it comes out of the oven.

Side Dishes

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette. If you’re in the mood for a heartier meal, add a warm, crusty loaf of garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a dinner that’s bound to satisfy.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, portion the pasta bake into ramekins or individual baking dishes. This not only makes serving easy but gives everyone their own share of bubbling cheese! You can also jazz up the presentation with a final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers especially tasty for lunch the next day.

Freezing

This bake freezes like a dream. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or place in an airtight container before freezing. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. For single servings, a microwave works fine—just add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it creamy.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken makes prep a breeze. Just shred it and add it with the pasta in Step 4; you’ll skip the skillet sauté, but you won’t lose any flavor.

Which pasta shapes work best for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?

Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini are ideal because they capture all the sauce and bake up beautifully. Avoid long noodles, which can clump.

Is this dish spicy with the red pepper flakes?

Not at all—it’s a gentle warmth that balances out the creaminess, but you can always leave them out if you prefer a completely mild bake.

Can I substitute other cheeses?

Yes! Try provolone, fontina, or Gruyère in place of or alongside mozzarella for an interesting flavor twist. Just keep Parmesan as a main player to keep the signature flavor.

How do I keep the pasta from overcooking in the oven?

Make sure to cook your pasta just until al dente before baking. This way, it’ll finish perfectly tender while baking and won’t turn mushy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that brings people together with its warmth and irresistible aroma, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is your ticket to a cozy, delicious meal. This hearty casserole is always a hit and quickly becomes a favorite at any table. Give it a try and enjoy every creamy, cheesy forkful!

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