Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

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Description

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that combines tender chunks of chicken with al dente pasta, all smothered in a cheesy garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. Baked until bubbly with a golden crust of melted cheese, this dish is perfect for weeknight family dinners or special gatherings. It’s hearty, satisfying, and irresistibly flavorful.

 Ingredients For Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)

  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini work best)

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)

  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 3 cups whole milk (warm)

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

 Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Make the garlic-Parmesan sauce – In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.

  3. Add dairy – Gradually whisk in warm milk and cream, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.

  4. Cheese it up – Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until creamy.

  5. Combine – Add cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce, mixing until fully coated.

  6. Assemble the bake – Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella (and cheddar if using) evenly on top.

  7. Bake – Place in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.

  8. Garnish & serve – Let it rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe.

  • For extra flavor, add sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms.

  • Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

  • Can be prepped ahead, refrigerated, and baked just before serving.

  •  Tips

  • Don’t overcook pasta since it will bake further in the oven.

  • Mix cheeses for a gooey, stretchy top layer.

  • Add a breadcrumb topping (panko + butter + Parmesan) for a crunchy crust.

  • Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.

Servings

  • Serves: 6 people

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 35 minutes

  • Total Time: 50 minutes

 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 520 kcal

  • Protein: 33 g

  • Carbohydrates: 42 g

  • Fat: 24 g

  • Saturated Fat: 12 g

  • Fiber: 2 g

  • Sodium: 640 mg

  • Sugar: 6 g

 Benefits

  • High in protein from chicken and cheese.

  • Comfort food perfect for families and gatherings.

  • Customizable with veggies and seasonings.

  • Provides calcium and energy-rich carbs.

 Q & A

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Q2: Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish (without baking), wrap well, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Q3: What can I use instead of chicken?
Turkey, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables can be used as a substitute.

Q4: How can I make it healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, low-fat milk, less cheese, and add veggies like broccoli or spinach.

Q5: What sides go well with it?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.

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