Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake – Creamy, Cheesy & Delicious!

If you love creamy, cheesy, and garlicky pasta, then this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is going to be your new favorite dish! This comforting, flavor-packed recipe is a perfect choice for a cozy dinner with family and friends. It features tender chicken, garlic-infused sauce, and a melty cheese topping that will make you come back for seconds. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and is ideal for meal prep, leftovers, or serving a crowd. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this delicious pasta bake from scratch!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

• Incredibly creamy and cheesy – Thanks to a combination of Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese, each bite is irresistibly delicious.
• Packed with rich garlic flavor – If you love the aroma of sautéed garlic, this dish delivers that in every bite.
• Perfect for busy weeknights – This pasta bake comes together in under 40 minutes and is family-friendly.
• Great for leftovers and meal prep – Make it ahead of time and reheat for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Customizable – You can swap out ingredients to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta Bake:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)

For the Topping:

• ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. Cook pasta 1-2 minutes less than package directions (since it will continue cooking in the oven). Drain and set aside.
3. If using raw chicken, cook and shred or dice it beforehand. Leftover rotisserie chicken works great!

Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

4. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
6. Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth.
7. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
8. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Pasta Bake

9. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Pour the garlic Parmesan sauce over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
10. Transfer to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup mozzarella and ½ cup cheddar cheese (if using) on top.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping and Bake

11. In a small bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over the casserole.
12. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

13. Let the pasta bake cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with dried parsley and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese – It melts better and gives a richer flavor.
• Avoid overcooking the pasta – Since it will continue cooking in the oven, slightly undercook it beforehand.
• Enhance the garlic flavor – Add roasted garlic instead of fresh for a deeper taste.
• Want extra creaminess? Stir in ¼ cup sour cream or cream cheese into the sauce.
• Make it spicy – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a little kick.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake with these side dishes:

• Garlic bread – A classic pairing for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Crisp green salad – A light, refreshing balance to the rich dish.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini complement this meal well.
• A glass of white wine – Try a crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

How to Store:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To freeze, place in a freezer-safe dish and store for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat:

• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes covered with foil.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk and heat over low heat until creamy again.

FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to swap mozzarella for provolone, gouda, or Swiss for a unique twist.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. What type of pasta works best?

Penne, rotini, or rigatoni are ideal because they hold onto the sauce well.

4. Can I add vegetables to this bake?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions.

5. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy garlic sauce, tender chicken, and gooey melted cheese in one irresistible dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, meal prep option, or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Try this recipe today and enjoy a cozy, flavor-packed meal with your loved ones!

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