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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake feature image

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

A comforting and cheesy pasta bake featuring tender chicken, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese. This dish combines creamy flavors with a golden, bubbly crust, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 people
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Pot For boiling pasta.
  • 1 Casserole dish (9x13 inch) Glass, ceramic, or enamel-coated metal works best.
  • 1 Mixing Bowl For combining ingredients.
  • 1 Measuring Cups/Spoons Ensures accurate portions of seasonings and liquids.
  • 1 Whisk For blending sauces smoothly.
  • 1 Aluminum foil To cover the casserole during baking.

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Penne pasta Other small pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli can be substituted.
  • 2 cups Cooked chicken Diced chicken breast or store-bought rotisserie chicken.
  • 2 cups Marinara or Alfredo sauce Choose based on preference for tangy or creamy flavor.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Adds creaminess to the sauce.
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated for better meltability and flavor.
  • 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese For a gooey, melty layer.
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Sautéed for aromatic flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing garlic and onions.
  • Salt To taste - Season generously to enhance flavor.
  • Pepper To taste - Freshly ground for better flavor.
  • Optional - Italian seasoning Adds herbaceous notes; use sparingly.
  • Optional - Fresh basil (chopped) For garnish and added freshness.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Prepare the Oven and Casserole Dish:

    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with oil or cooking spray.

    Cook the Pasta:

    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly with cold water to prevent overcooking.

    Sauté Garlic and Prepare Sauce:

    • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
    • Stir in marinara or Alfredo sauce and heavy cream. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.

    Layer the Ingredients:

    • Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the casserole dish. Add half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the chicken, and sprinkle evenly with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.
    • Repeat the layers: sauce, remaining pasta, chicken, and cheeses. Finish with a generous topping of mozzarella for a golden crust.

    Bake the Casserole:

    • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
    • For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.

    Garnish and Serve:

    • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
      • Freezing: Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
      • Healthier Option: Substitute heavy cream with low-fat milk or Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What are the essential ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?
      • Chicken, pasta, garlic, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, marinara or Alfredo sauce, and heavy cream.
       
    2. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
      • Yes, diced rotisserie chicken works perfectly for convenience.
       
    3. How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
      • Cook the pasta until al dente and rinse briefly with cold water after draining. Avoid overcooking before baking.
     
    1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
      • Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
       
    2. What type of pasta works best?
      • Small shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli hold the sauce well and bake evenly.
       
    3. How can I add vegetables to this dish?
      • Mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted bell peppers with the chicken and sauce layers.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or smoked paprika for depth. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley elevate the dish further.
    • Presentation: Garnish with chopped fresh basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for added color and flavor.
    • Leftovers: Use leftover baked pasta in wraps, sandwiches, or as a base for a quick lunch.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
    • Serving Style: Scoop portions neatly onto plates, ensuring each serving has a mix of pasta, chicken, and melted cheese.
    • Sides: Pair with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
    Keyword Chicken Recipe, Comfort Food, Garlic Parmesan, Pasta Bake