Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal, then this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is exactly what you need. This dish combines tender rotini pasta with succulent chicken, all enveloped in layers of creamy Alfredo and garlic Parmesan sauce. Every bite bursts with rich flavors and melty cheese that make it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for effortless weeknight dinners and crowd-pleasing meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create big flavors and an irresistible texture. Each component plays an important role, from the pasta that holds the sauce to the cheese that gives it that perfect golden crust.

• Rotini pasta (1 pound): The twisty shape helps trap sauce and cheese, making every bite deliciously coated.
• Cooked chicken (3 cups, diced or shredded): Adds hearty protein to keep the dish satisfying and filling.
• Alfredo sauce (2 jars, 15 ounces each): Provides the creamy, luscious base that makes this bake so comforting.
• Garlic Parmesan sauce (1 cup): Boosts the flavor with a delightful garlic punch and cheesy richness.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully to create that gooey, stringy texture everyone loves.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds sharp, salty notes and helps form a golden crust when baked.
• Pasta cooking water (1/2 cup, optional): Keeps the casserole perfectly saucy without watering down the flavors.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances every flavor in the dish.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a mild kick and balances the creamy richness.
• Fresh parsley (chopped, optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh brightness as a garnish.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cook the Rotini Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until it reaches al dente—firm but tender. Once cooked, drain the pasta but don’t toss the cooking water just yet; save a cup of it for later use in the casserole.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, diced or shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic Parmesan sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. If the mixture feels a little thick, add about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water to keep the casserole saucy and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Bake

Pour the creamy pasta and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly so every corner gets saucy goodness. Then sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top for that cheesy finishing touch.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the dish is heated through.

Step 6: Add a Golden Brown Finish

For a beautifully crisp and golden top, remove the foil and place the dish under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning—this step creates that irresistible crispy, cheesy crust that makes this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake so memorable.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest, covered with foil, for about 5 minutes. This keeps the dish warm and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness before serving.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a fantastic way to brighten the appearance and flavor right before serving. You might also add a light dusting of extra grated Parmesan or a swirl of extra garlic Parmesan sauce for a luxurious finish.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, serve this pasta bake alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also complement the creamy, cheesy flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress? Serve individual portions in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a cozy presentation. Alternatively, sprinkle crushed toasted breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan on top before baking for an added crunch twist to the classic Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen a bit in the fridge, making second servings just as delightful as the first.

Freezing

This bake freezes beautifully. After assembling the pasta bake but before baking, cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra cooking time until heated through and bubbly.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes, covered with foil to keep it moist. If using a microwave, heat in shorter intervals to ensure even warming without drying out the cheesy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?

Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding sauce, penne, fusilli, or rigatoni will also work wonderfully in this casserole.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers to keep it hearty and flavorful.

Can I prepare this dish without store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Definitely! You can make a homemade Alfredo sauce using butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, which adds an even fresher touch to your pasta bake.

How spicy is the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?

This recipe is mild and creamy with no heat, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a little kick.

Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?

This recipe calls for cooked chicken. If you prefer using raw chicken, cook it thoroughly first either by baking, sautéing, or boiling, before mixing it with the pasta and sauces.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a total crowd-pleaser, full of creamy goodness and cozy flavors that feel like a warm hug in every bite. Once you make it, you’ll see why it’s a favorite for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or anytime you want easy comfort food that tastes special. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

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