Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re craving comfort food that’s impossible to resist, look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser: golden-melted cheese, juicy bites of chicken, tender pasta—all cloaked in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce that’s loaded with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends for a cozy dinner, this dish promises hearty satisfaction in every bite and will quickly become a cherished go-to in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t you love a recipe where every ingredient truly shines? Each piece here plays an essential role, bringing savory depth, luscious creaminess, or a burst of vibrant color to your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake. Let’s break down what you’ll need for this pasta sensation:

• Pasta (12 oz): Go with penne, rigatoni, or rotini—these shapes trap the creamy sauce perfectly for bites full of flavor.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): A touch of richness that helps the chicken brown beautifully and adds that Mediterranean heartiness.
• Chicken breasts (2-3, diced): The star protein—choose boneless, skinless for tender, juicy results that soak up the sauce.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): The soul of the dish! Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with bold, aromatic depth.
• Butter (3 tablespoons): For a velvety base to your sauce, butter provides unmatched flavor and richness.
• All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): This creates a simple roux, thickening your sauce into creamy perfection.
• Milk (2 1/2 cups): Use whole or 2% milk—the creamier, the better for a truly luxurious sauce.
• Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds savory, mouthwatering depth and prevents your sauce from getting too thick.
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that brings classic Italian flair to your pasta bake.
• Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For those who love a little kick—totally customizable!
• Parmesan cheese (1 1/2 cups, grated): The hero of the sauce, providing a nutty, salty creaminess you can’t get from anything else.
• Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts to bubbly, golden goodness on top for that irresistible cheesy stretch.
• Salt and pepper: Add to taste, balancing and highlighting all the flavors in the sauce.
• Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): The perfect finishing touch, adding freshness and a burst of color once baked.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by warming your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s perfectly preheated and ready to make your pasta bake turn bubbly, golden, and delicious from the moment it goes in. Don’t forget to grease your baking dish—a 9×13-inch pan is ideal—to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add your favorite bite-sized pasta—penne, rigatoni, or rotini—and cook according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain well and set aside. The pasta will finish cooking in the oven, so keeping it al dente prevents mushiness in the final bake.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Toss in your diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and let it sizzle until it’s beautifully golden and fully cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Once it’s ready, transfer the chicken to a bowl and set aside so you can build your sauce in the same pan—hello, extra flavor!

Step 4: Create the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Using the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Toss in your minced garlic, stirring for about a minute until it’s wonderfully fragrant—this step is key for infusing your sauce with that to-die-for garlic flavor. Now, sprinkle in the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which is what will thicken your sauce to creamy, dreamy goodness.

Step 5: Build the Creamy Base

Slowly add the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps (trust me—steady whisking makes all the difference!). Continue stirring for around 5 minutes, until your sauce thickens and is smooth throughout. This base is what will encase every piece of pasta and chicken in creamy, garlicky love.

Step 6: Stir in Flavor and Cheese

With the sauce thickened, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if you love heat), and 1 cup of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is smooth and melty, then season to taste with a pinch more salt and pepper. The sauce should now be irresistibly cheesy with a kick of herbed warmth.

Step 7: Combine and Assemble the Bake

Add your cooked chicken and pasta right into the skillet with the sauce, stirring so everything is beautifully coated. Pour this mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly and patting yourself on the back—this is going to be so good!

Step 8: Top with Cheese

Scatter the shredded mozzarella and the remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese over the top. This blanket of cheese will turn golden and bubbly in the oven, creating the signature look (and taste!) of a truly great Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Slide your pan into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese topping is melted, golden, and irresistibly bubbly. If you’re after an even deeper golden finish, pop the broiler on for the last minute or two, keeping a close eye!

Step 10: Serve It Up

Once out of the oven, let your pasta bake rest for a couple of minutes. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Now, grab a big spoon—it’s time to dig in and experience the magic of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the finishing touches! A shower of freshly chopped parsley is classic and adds that burst of brightness. A little extra shaved Parmesan is always welcome for serious cheese fans. If you like a touch of heat, try a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top—your tastebuds will thank you!

Side Dishes

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is fantastic on its own, but it pairs perfectly with simple, fresh sides. A crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, while warm garlic bread or a rustic baguette is ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce. Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables also make colorful, nourishing companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For family-style charm, serve straight from the baking dish at the table and let everyone dive in. Hosting a dinner party? Spoon the bake into individual ramekins—so cute and elegant! You can even stuff the cheesy mixture into hollowed-out bell peppers before baking for a seriously impressive (and slightly lighter) presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a meal you’ll actually look forward to! Let the bake cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld, making leftovers even more delicious.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Wrap portions (or the entire bake) tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before baking; simply assemble and freeze, then bake straight from the freezer (adding a few extra minutes) when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through—usually about 20-25 minutes. For quick lunches, a microwave works too; just be sure to cover and heat gently to maintain the creamy consistency. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?

Absolutely! While the combo of Parmesan and mozzarella is classic, you can swap in provolone, fontina, or even sharp white cheddar for a unique twist. Just be sure your cheese melts well for that gooey, irresistible topping!

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta (rice or chickpea versions work well), and sub in a good gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the roux. Check labels on chicken broth, too—some brands contain gluten.

Can I prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake ahead of time?

Definitely. Assemble the dish (not yet baked), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When dinnertime rolls around, simply uncover and bake as directed—add a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

If fresh garlic is unavailable, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir it in when you add the milk and broth, but if possible, fresh garlic is worth it for that bold flavor infusion.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta bake?

Yes! Feel free to mix in sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. Add them with the cooked chicken and pasta for a one-dish meal bursting with goodness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing a bubbling pan of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake with loved ones. It’s classic, comforting, and full of those crowd-pleasing flavors you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try and let its cheesy, garlicky charm win your heart!

Print