Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a rich and creamy comfort dish packed with tender chicken, al dente pasta, a garlicky Parmesan sauce, and a golden, crispy topping. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this pasta bake is easy to make and bursting with flavor. Baked to perfection with a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or looking for a comforting dinner, this pasta bake is a must-try!
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake:

  • 12 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Topping:

  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Cooking the Pasta:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions.
  3. Drain and set aside.

Preparing the Chicken:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in flour and cook for another minute, whisking continuously.
  4. Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
  5. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese and mozzarella.
  6. Add red pepper flakes if using.
  7. Cook until the sauce is thick and creamy.

Assembling the Pasta Bake:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and garlic Parmesan sauce.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Preparing the Topping:

  1. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and garlic powder.
  2. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta bake.

Baking the Dish:

  1. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
  2. Broil for the last 2 minutes to achieve a crispy topping.

Serving:

  1. Let the pasta bake cool for 5 minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
  • Make sure the sauce is thick enough before adding it to the pasta.
  • For extra flavor, add crispy bacon bits or sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Substitute chicken with shrimp or turkey for a variation.

Creative Variations

  • Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture.
  • Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
  • Swap mozzarella for Gouda or Fontina for a unique flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the pasta bake and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Can I freeze this? Yes, cover the unbaked dish with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 45 minutes. What can I serve this with? A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a guaranteed hit. Try it today and enjoy a comforting homemade meal!

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