This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a game-changer for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Imagine tender pieces of chicken nestled in perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce that creates an irresistible golden crust when baked. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and elegant dining, making it a hit with both picky eaters and food enthusiasts. The combination of aromatic garlic, nutty Parmesan, and herbs creates layers of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. What makes this dish truly special is its versatility and ease of preparation – you can prep components ahead, customize ingredients to your taste, and even freeze portions for later. The creamy sauce and melted cheese create that satisfying pull when you serve it, while the crispy top adds a delightful textural contrast. Best of all, it’s a complete meal in one dish, combining protein, pasta, and a decadent sauce that will make your kitchen smell amazing.
Pure Comfort
There’s something magical about pulling a bubbling, golden-brown pasta bake from the oven. The way the cheese creates those perfect crispy edges, while the center remains creamy and inviting.
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 pounds chicken breasts, diced
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
What You Need
- 9×13 baking dish
- Large pot for pasta
- Large skillet
- Grater
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Time to Cook
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Serves: 8 people
Steps to Make It
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Cook pasta al dente according to package instructions
- Season diced chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning
- Heat olive oil in skillet and cook chicken until golden
- Remove chicken, add butter and garlic to the same pan
- Create sauce by adding cream and 1 cup Parmesan
- Combine pasta, chicken, and sauce
- Transfer to baking dish
- Top with remaining Parmesan and mozzarella
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly
Make It Perfect
Watch the garlic closely when sautéing – golden is perfect, brown is bitter. Always reserve some pasta water before draining; it’s perfect for adjusting sauce consistency.
Mix It Up
Try different pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli. The deep ridges and curves hold the sauce beautifully and create interesting texture variations.
Perfect Partners
Serve with garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad. A light white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Busy Day Hero
Prep the chicken and garlic the night before. Store in separate containers in the fridge to make assembly quick and easy.
Work Ahead
Assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Keep covered in the refrigerator and add an extra 5-10 minutes to baking time.
Save Some For Later
Portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Everyone’s Happy
Kids love this dish for its cheesy goodness, while adults appreciate the sophisticated garlic and Parmesan flavors.
Good For You Too
Add steamed broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients. Use whole grain pasta for additional fiber and protein.
Easy Clean Up
Line your baking dish with foil for easy cleanup. Use one pot for pasta and one pan for sauce to minimize dishes.
Switch It Up
Try different cheese combinations like Asiago or Gruyere. Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for color and flavor.
Simply Perfect
The key to perfection is using freshly grated Parmesan and good quality garlic – these two ingredients are the heart of the dish.
FAQs
- Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
Yes, while freshly grated Parmesan delivers the best flavor and melting quality, pre-grated can work. Look for refrigerated options rather than shelf-stable varieties for better results. Fresh Parmesan will give you a more intense flavor and smoother sauce texture. - How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta 1-2 minutes less than the package directions indicate (very al dente). It will continue cooking in the oven with the sauce. Additionally, toss the pasta in a bit of olive oil after draining to prevent it from sticking and absorbing too much moisture. - Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are an excellent alternative to breasts. They’re more forgiving when it comes to cooking time and often provide more flavor due to their higher fat content. Just ensure they’re cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. - Is it possible to make this ahead?
Yes, you have several make-ahead options. Assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours before baking and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes first, then add 5-10 minutes to the baking time. - How do I reheat leftovers?
For best results, cover the dish with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes). If using a microwave, add a splash of milk or cream to maintain moisture, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is more than just a recipe – it’s a celebration of comfort food at its finest. The beauty of this dish lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures, from the tender chicken and al dente pasta to the creamy sauce and crispy cheese topping. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your family’s preferences while maintaining its core deliciousness. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week ahead, or hosting a dinner party, this pasta bake delivers consistently excellent results. The combination of simple ingredients transforms into something truly special in the oven, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable. With its make-ahead options and crowd-pleasing appeal, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your cooking rotation, bringing warmth and comfort to your table time and time again.
More Tasty Dishes to Try
If you enjoyed the comforting, cheesy goodness of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, why not explore more delicious recipes? For another hearty pasta dish, check out the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta, which brings together bold garlic flavors with a rich and creamy sauce. If you’re in the mood for something with a crispy bite, Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps offer the perfect balance of crunch and cheesiness. Need a flavorful side? The Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, and Zucchini will pair beautifully with your pasta bake. For a touch of gourmet elegance, try the Prosecco Braised Artichoke Risotto with Crispy Sage Breadcrumbs, a creamy and aromatic dish that elevates any meal. And if you’re craving a unique Italian dessert, the Calabrian Fig Mostarda offers a sweet and tangy twist that’s perfect for cheese pairings or as a topping. Happy cooking! 🍽️