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Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Pasta Bake

Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Pasta Bake
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Pasta Bake is a cozy, crowd-pleasing comfort meal featuring tender chicken breasts, al dente penne or rigatoni pasta, and a rich, creamy garlic parmesan sauce. This one-dish bake combines cheesy indulgence with simple preparation, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. It’s customizable, family-friendly, and guarantees a satisfying dinner with gooey mozzarella topping and fresh parsley garnish.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 large chicken breasts, seasoned with salt and pepper

Pasta

  • 12 ounces uncooked penne or rigatoni pasta

Sauce & Cheese

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Garnish & Seasoning

  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep and Sauté the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat, let rest briefly, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook the Pasta: While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, subtracting 1-2 minutes to keep it al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt additional butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously, allowing it to gently thicken. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine and Bake: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and creamy garlic parmesan sauce thoroughly. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Notes

  • Avoid overcooking the chicken by using a meat thermometer or cutting into the thickest part.
  • Slightly undercook the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
  • Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best melt and flavor.
  • Allow the bake to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the sauce set and for easier slicing.
  • For added aroma and flavor, stir in fresh herbs such as basil or oregano if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic parmesan chicken, pasta bake, comfort food, cheesy chicken pasta, baked pasta, easy weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/garlic-parmesan-chicken-pasta-bake/