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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a cozy, creamy, and cheesy casserole featuring tender chicken, a rich garlic parmesan sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese baked to golden perfection. This quick and simple dish uses pantry staples and is perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. It’s indulgent yet balanced, customizable, meal-prep friendly, and loved by both kids and adults.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs

Pasta

  • 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta

Garlic Parmesan Sauce

  • 3–4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Other Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Cook the Pasta: Boil water with a pinch of salt and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, as the pasta will absorb the creamy sauce beautifully later.
  2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan, let rest, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Slowly whisk in heavy cream, then gradually add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with additional salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to taste.
  4. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce: In a large bowl or the skillet, gently mix the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and garlic parmesan sauce ensuring everything is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the pasta; slightly undercook it as it will cook more in the oven and absorb sauce.
  • Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for richer flavor and better melting.
  • Sear chicken thoroughly to add depth of flavor and lock in juiciness.
  • Allow the mixture to rest before baking to prevent mushy pasta.
  • Feel free to double the mozzarella cheese for a gooey, golden crust.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 500 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, Creamy Chicken Casserole, Cheesy Garlic Pasta, Weeknight Dinner, Comfort Food