Get ready to fall head over heels for comfort food all over again! Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is everything you crave in a single pan—juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and bubbling cheese all tangled up with tender pasta. From that first savory bite to the irresistible crispy topping, this dish brings the heartiest flavors of home together in every forkful. It’s as much about welcoming friends and family to the table as it is about savoring an unbelievably delicious meal. Even better, it’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake such a standout is how everyday ingredients come together to create something truly extraordinary. Each element—from the pasta to the aromatics—plays an essential role in building irresistible flavor and that perfect, creamy texture.

Penne pasta: Holds the creamy sauce beautifully, and its ridges catch every cheesy, garlicky bite.
Olive oil: Adds a touch of richness and helps get a perfectly golden sear on the chicken.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean, tender, and soaks up all that garlicky seasoning for deep flavor.
Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic provides a warm, savory backbone that defines the dish.
Butter: Lends a luscious mouthfeel to the sauce and brings out the garlic aroma.
All-purpose flour: Forms the base for a silky roux, thickening the sauce just right.
Whole milk: Softens and balances the robust flavors, keeping the sauce creamy—not heavy.
Heavy cream: Adds the extra indulgence and velvety texture that makes each bite memorable.
Grated Parmesan cheese: The heart of the dish, lending bold, nutty, and salty notes.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Half goes inside for stretch, half goes on top for that classic bubbly finish.
Italian seasoning: Brings herbs like basil and oregano to the party, infusing the dish with Italian flair.
Salt: Enhances every flavor and ties all the seasonings together.
Black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the richness of the cheese and cream.
Chopped parsley (optional): A burst of freshness to bring color and brightness when sprinkled on top.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures an even bake and perfectly melty cheese. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to make serving (and cleanup) a total breeze. Good prep always sets you up for maximum success!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Just Right

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add your penne. Cook until just al dente (follow the package for guidance)—the pasta will continue softening in the oven as it absorbs the flavors of that luscious sauce. Drain well and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté and Season the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sprinkle generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until nicely browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes, then remove the chicken and set it aside. Letting the chicken rest while you make the sauce keeps it extra juicy.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter and toss in your minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute, just until fragrant—don’t let it brown! Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for another 1–2 minutes. Now, whisk in the milk and heavy cream slowly. Let it simmer and thicken for a few minutes (the anticipation is worth it!). When it’s silky-smooth, stir in the Parmesan cheese and half the mozzarella, watching as it melts into creamy perfection.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

Add the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken into the skillet with your sauce. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Pour this glorious mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top—don’t be shy! Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

When your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is bubbling with golden cheesy goodness, pull it from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes, then sprinkle with chopped parsley if you like a pop of color and brightness. Serve warm, and watch everyone dive in!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Garnishes

Chopped fresh parsley is a game-changer with this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake. The verdant green wakes up those creamy flavors and adds contrast to every cheesy bite. If you want a little extra zing, a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can bring just a hint of heat.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with a punchy vinaigrette is the ultimate sidekick, freshening up your plate and balancing out the richness of the pasta bake. For even more veggie power, serve roasted broccoli, steamed green beans, or garlicky sautéed spinach on the side. And let’s be real: nobody will complain about a warm loaf of garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins for an eye-catching twist at dinner parties. For buffet gatherings, scoop the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake into a big, beautiful serving bowl and garnish with extra Parmesan at the table. If you’re feeling playful, offer a “toppings bar” with chopped herbs, red pepper flakes, and toasted breadcrumbs so everyone can customize their plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

When you’ve got extra Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer portions into airtight containers. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making lunch or a quick dinner absolutely delicious the next day.

Freezing

This dish is freezer-friendly! Bake it, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. You can also freeze single portions in containers. It’s best enjoyed within 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To refresh leftovers, cover and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, adding a splash of milk to keep things creamy if needed. For single portions, microwave gently in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until piping hot and melty.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While penne is classic for this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, any short, sturdy pasta like rigatoni, rotini, or ziti will work well. Just aim for a shape that holds the sauce and cheese.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the entire bake (minus the final mozzarella topping), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, sprinkle the cheese on top and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes since it’ll be starting out cold.

Can I substitute rotisserie chicken?

Definitely. Rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver; just shred or chop it and stir it into the sauce in place of the cooked chicken, then continue with the recipe as directed.

How can I add extra vegetables?

Steamed broccoli, baby spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes can be stirred into the pasta and sauce before baking. Just make sure any veggies are cooked and drained well to avoid a watery bake.

Can I make this gluten-free?

It’s easy to adapt! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the roux. Check that your other ingredients, like seasonings and cheese, are gluten-free too.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake a spot on your next dinner menu! There’s something irresistible about its creamy sauce, melting cheese, and garlicky depth—plus, it brings so much comfort to any table. Happy cooking, and enjoy every last bite!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

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4.8 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella. Baked to perfection, this hearty meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 oz penne pasta

Chicken:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Sauce:

4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish:

Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook the pasta until al dente, then set aside.
Cook Chicken: Brown chicken in olive oil, season, and set aside.
Make Sauce: Sauté garlic in butter, add flour, then slowly whisk in milk and cream. Stir in cheeses until smooth.
Combine and Bake: Toss pasta and chicken in sauce, transfer to baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake until golden.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm.