Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake – Creamy, Cheesy & Delicious

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If you’re craving a creamy, cheesy, and garlicky pasta dish, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect recipe for you! This baked pasta dish brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, velvety garlic Parmesan sauce, all topped with melted cheese and crispy breadcrumbs. It’s a meal that’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and ideal for a family dinner, potluck, or meal prep.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, from choosing the right ingredients to customizing it to your liking. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this detailed step-by-step guide will help you make a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Easy to make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this dish accessible to all. ✔ Rich and creamy – The combination of Parmesan, mozzarella, and heavy cream creates an indulgent texture. ✔ Great for leftovers – This pasta bake tastes even better the next day! ✔ Customizable – Swap the protein, cheese, or seasonings to suit your taste. ✔ Perfect for gatherings – It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini work best) – These shapes hold the sauce well.
  • Substitution: Any short pasta like fusilli or cavatappi can be used.

Chicken

  • 2 chicken breasts, diced – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe.
  • Substitution: Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness or shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Garlic Parmesan Sauce

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic enhances the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon salt & ½ teaspoon black pepper – Essential seasonings.
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs for added depth.
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a hint of heat.
  • 2 cups heavy cream – Creates a rich and creamy texture.
  • 1 cup chicken broth – Adds depth to the sauce.
  • 1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese – The star of the sauce, giving it a sharp, nutty flavor.

Cheese & Toppings

  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for a gooey texture.
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) – Adds an extra layer of flavor.
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping) – Creates a crispy golden crust.
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted – Helps the breadcrumbs toast evenly.
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – For garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add diced chicken and season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
  4. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

  1. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well.
  2. Bring to a simmer and stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
  3. Let the sauce thicken for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it in the creamy sauce.
  2. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Add Toppings & Bake

  1. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter.
  2. Sprinkle over the pasta for a crispy, golden topping.
  3. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  4. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.

Variations & Customizations

✅ Make it spicy – Add extra red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken. ✅ Low-carb option – Use cauliflower florets instead of pasta for a keto-friendly version. ✅ Vegetarian alternative – Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies. ✅ Extra cheesy – Add an extra layer of cheese on top before baking for an ultra-gooey finish.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake pairs wonderfully with:

  • Garlic bread for an extra garlicky experience.
  • A crisp Caesar salad to balance the richness.
  • Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for added nutrition.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Penne, rigatoni, or rotini hold the sauce best, but any pasta will work.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Add an extra ½ cup of heavy cream or an additional ½ cup of shredded cheese to the sauce.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes! Kids love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor. Reduce red pepper flakes if needed.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a hearty, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, this baked pasta is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers on taste, texture, and comfort. Try it today and enjoy every delicious bite!

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