If you’re in search of a dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a cheese sauce that’s both creamy and deeply flavorful, your answer is the irresistible Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake. This recipe brings together Italian-inspired comfort in a single casserole, letting garlic and parmesan shine alongside a gooey blanket of mozzarella. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or making a dish for guests who love hearty, cheesy meals, this bake checks every box for comfort and flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Great recipes start with great ingredients, and this pasta bake is all about building layers of flavor with simple, everyday staples. Each item plays a crucial role in the taste, texture, and vibrant color of the finished Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake.
- 12 oz penne pasta: Penne holds the creamy sauce perfectly and bakes up with the ideal texture, but any similar pasta works in a pinch.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Butter creates a rich base for the sauce and brings out the garlic’s aroma.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The unmistakable star, garlic infuses every bite with warmth and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This thickens the sauce to luscious, velvety perfection.
- 2 cups whole milk: Ensures the sauce is creamy but not too heavy; use whole milk for best results.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds that luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth richness you crave in every cheesy pasta bake.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Real Parmesan lends intense savoriness and a tangy finish to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A dash of herbs ties everything together and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Don’t skimp—this brings the other ingredients to life.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth without overpowering the sauce.
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed: Juicy chicken soaks up all the cheesy, garlicky goodness.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For that bubbly, golden top that everybody wants to dive into first.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A fresh, colorful finish that lifts each serving visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure a perfectly baked, bubbly top. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This step is key for an easy release and golden edges that everyone loves to pick at!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your penne. Cook until just al dente—it will finish cooking in the oven, so you don’t want it mushy. Drain well and set aside while you prepare the garlicky cheese sauce.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to brown the garlic. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for another minute to create a smooth roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly—this ensures a lump-free, creamy base. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, until thickened and silky.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings
With the heat off, stir in Parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Taste here if you want to adjust the salt or spice levels—this sauce is the heart of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake!
Step 5: Add Chicken and Pasta
Fold the cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated. The mix should look saucy and rich, promising every bite is infused with chicken, cheese, and aromatics.
Step 6: Assemble and Top with Mozzarella
Pour everything into your prepared baking dish and use a spatula to smooth it out. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella all over the top, making sure to cover all edges for that crowd-pleasing cheesy crust.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the dish into your hot oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is totally melted and bubbling with irresistible golden spots. Let it cool for just a few minutes before serving—then garnish with parsley for a fresh pop of color.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of fresh parsley adds both brightness and a bit of herbal freshness to the plate. For a touch of zing, try a grating of extra Parmesan or a pinch of crushed red pepper. The steam mingling with those herbs and cheese makes this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake look irresistible!
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta bake loves crisp, refreshing sides. Pair it with a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables for color and crunch. It’s a meal that can stand alone or become a show-stopping centerpiece with the right supporting cast.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, scoop the bake into individual ramekins and bake until bubbly, or serve family-style straight from the casserole dish. Garnish with extra fresh parsley, lemon zest, or a drizzle of good olive oil. A scattering of toasted breadcrumbs adds a pleasant crunch and sophistication for dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the baking dish tightly or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake will stay delicious for 3–4 days, ready to reheat for quick lunches or satisfying dinners.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this pasta bake! Assemble and cool completely first, then wrap in two layers of plastic wrap and foil. It will keep for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking or reheating.
Reheating
Warm individual portions in the microwave—add a splash of milk if it seems dry—or reheat the entire dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly. This keeps the sauce creamy and the flavors vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use another type Main Course
Absolutely! Penne is classic here, but you can use ziti, rigatoni, or rotini—just aim for shapes that “hug” the creamy sauce well.
Can I substitute the chicken?
Yes! Cooked turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even cooked Italian sausage are all delicious in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake. Make it your own by using your favorite protein.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, and reduce the cheese if you prefer a lighter bake. Add lots of sautéed veggies to bulk it up with less indulgence without sacrificing flavor.
Can I add vegetables?
Definitely. Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli tuck into this dish beautifully. Just make sure veggies are cooked and any moisture is drained off to keep the sauce nice and creamy.
How do I get that perfectly golden top?
For a golden, bubbly finish, broil the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn, and enjoy that cheesy crust!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort and crave-worthy flavor, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is ready to become your new favorite. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s rich, easy, and endlessly customizable—just waiting for you to share with the people you love. Give it a try and savor every gooey, garlicky bite!
