Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’ve been searching for that perfect comfort meal that’s both cozy and crowd-pleasing, here it is: the Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Pasta Bake. This dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, rich creamy sauce, and that mouthwatering garlic parmesan flavor into one irresistible bake. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners, it’s simple to prepare but delivers big on taste and satisfaction every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Cheesy Comfort: Loads of parmesan and creamy sauce make every bite indulgent.
• Family Friendly: Perfect for kids and adults alike with familiar flavors.
• One-Dish Wonder: Combines protein, carbs, and veggies in one easy bake.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to include your favorite herbs or veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Pasta Bake lies in simple, trusted ingredients that come together perfectly. Each adds a layer of flavor, texture, or color to make this dish truly memorable.

• Chicken breasts: Tender, juicy protein that pairs beautifully with creamy sauce.
• Uncooked pasta: Penne or rigatoni work best to hold onto the cheese and sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Provides that essential savory base that defines the dish.
• Parmesan cheese: A sharp, nutty flavor that takes the bake to the next level.
• Heavy cream: Creates the rich and velvety sauce everyone will love.
• Shredded mozzarella: Adds gooey, melty deliciousness on top.
• Butter: Enhances flavor and helps cook the garlic evenly.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal note to finish.
• Salt and pepper: Balanced seasoning to round out all the flavors.

Variations for Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Pasta Bake

Feel free to make this recipe your own. Whether you want to add more veggies, swap proteins, or adjust for dietary preferences, there’s plenty of ways to customize this dish while keeping its comforting core.

• Veggie boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra color and nutrients.
• Protein swap: Use turkey, tofu, or shrimp to vary the savory depth.
• Low-carb option: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
• Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives to keep it creamy.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Pasta Bake

Step 1: Prep and Sauté the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and just cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Once done, set aside and slice into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing later.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions minus a minute or two for al dente texture—you want it to finish cooking in the sauce. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt more butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes. Pour in heavy cream and stir continuously, letting it gently thicken. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Pasta Bake

• Chicken doneness: Avoid overcooking by using a thermometer or cutting into the thickest part.
• Pasta timing: Slightly undercook pasta so it doesn’t become mushy in the bake.
• Fresh cheese: Use fresh Parmesan for the best melt and flavor impact.
• Rest before serving: Let the bake cool for 5 minutes to set sauce and make it easier to slice.
• Herb enhancement: Stir in fresh herbs like basil or oregano for added aroma.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Pasta Bake

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan on top brightens flavors and adds that lovely fresh green color you want to see on a creamy pasta bake.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables pair beautifully, balancing out the creamy, cheesy richness of the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in baked ramekins for an impressive presentation or family-style in a rustic baking dish to keep it cozy and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days, making sure to cool it completely before sealing.

Freezing

Freeze the bake in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispness on top, or microwave covered for a quicker option—add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce seems dry.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor, just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.

What type of pasta works best?

Short, sturdy pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini holds the sauce well and maintains texture after baking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring your Parmesan cheese is certified gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day before and refrigerate it before baking, which makes weeknight dinners even easier.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the cream and Parmesan mixture gently to reduce and thicken before combining with pasta, or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Pasta Bake is one of those feel-good meals that never disappoints. Perfectly cheesy, creamy, and packed with savory garlic goodness, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself craving again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and make this tasty bake a new favorite on your dinner table!

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