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:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
Preparing the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in flour and cook for another minute, whisking continuously.
- Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese and mozzarella.
- Add red pepper flakes if using.
- Cook until the sauce is thick and creamy.
Assembling the Pasta Bake:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Preparing the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and garlic powder.
- Sprinkle evenly over the pasta bake.
Baking the Dish:
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
- Broil for the last 2 minutes to achieve a crispy topping.
Serving:
- Let the pasta bake cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- 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!