creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake easy recipe

There’s something magical about a dish that brings everyone running to the dinner table, and my creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake easy recipe does exactly that. I remember the first time I made this for Lila and Jack on a chilly Oregon evening. The kitchen filled with the aroma of roasted garlic and bubbling cheese, and suddenly, homework was forgotten.

Grace stopped by unexpectedly that night, and we ended up sharing stories over second helpings while the kids giggled about their day. This recipe reminds me of Mark’s favorite comfort foods—simple, hearty, and made with love.

It’s become my go-to whenever I need something that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake easy recipe combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic parmesan sauce that makes everyone ask for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake easy recipe checks all the boxes for busy families. First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare. You don’t need fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

Second, it’s a complete meal in one dish. Everything bakes together beautifully, creating layers of flavor that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. Third, kids absolutely love it. The creamy sauce coats every piece of pasta, making it irresistible even to picky eaters.

Additionally, this easy creamy chicken pasta bake is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready. It feeds a crowd effortlessly, making it ideal for potlucks or family gatherings.

The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a restaurant-quality flavor that impresses everyone. Moreover, leftovers taste amazing the next day. Finally, cleanup is minimal since everything cooks in one baking dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake easy recipe uses straightforward ingredients you likely already have. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:

Ingredient	Amount
Penne or rigatoni pasta	1 pound
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts	1.5 pounds
Heavy cream	2 cups
Chicken broth	1 cup
Freshly grated parmesan cheese	1.5 cups, divided
Mozzarella cheese, shredded	2 cups
Garlic cloves, minced	6-8 cloves
Butter	4 tablespoons
All-purpose flour	3 tablespoons
Italian seasoning	2 teaspoons
Salt and black pepper	To taste
Fresh parsley, chopped	For garnish

Substitutions & Variations

This garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake recipe adapts beautifully to different preferences and dietary needs. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. Greek yogurt works too, though add it at the end to prevent curdling. If you’re avoiding gluten, use your favorite gluten-free pasta and substitute cornstarch for flour.

For protein variations, try rotisserie chicken to save time. Leftover turkey works wonderfully, especially after Thanksgiving. Shrimp makes an elegant alternative for special occasions. You can also make this vegetarian by omitting chicken and adding mushrooms, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Cheese substitutions work well in this easy chicken parmesan pasta bake. Try gruyere for a sophisticated flavor or asiago for extra sharpness. Add cream cheese for ultra-creaminess.

For vegetables, fold in steamed broccoli, roasted bell peppers, or fresh spinach. Peas add a pop of color and sweetness that kids enjoy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake easy recipe is straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Cook the pasta according to package directions, but reduce cooking time by 2 minutes. You want it al dente since it continues cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside. This technique ensures your creamy chicken pasta bake doesn’t become mushy.

Step 3: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of butter. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes, then cut into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: In the same skillet, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it. Sprinkle flour over the butter and garlic, whisking constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux.

Step 5: Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Then slowly add heavy cream, continuing to whisk. This creates the base for your garlic parmesan pasta bake sauce.

Add remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 cup of parmesan cheese. Whisk until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 7: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken pieces, and the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Mix thoroughly so every piece gets coated. Transfer everything to your prepared baking dish.

Step 8: Top with mozzarella cheese and remaining parmesan. Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes covered, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 9: Let the creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.

Making this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake easy recipe is straightforward. For another quick and delicious option, check out our pumpkin ravioli pasta creamy 30 minute dinner.

Pro Tips for Success

After making this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake easy recipe countless times, I’ve learned some tricks. First, always use freshly grated parmesan. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Fresh parmesan makes your sauce incredibly creamy.

Second, don’t overcook your pasta initially. Undercooked pasta absorbs the sauce beautifully while baking, creating better texture. Third, let your chicken rest before cutting. This keeps the meat juicy and prevents the dish from becoming watery.

Furthermore, room temperature cream incorporates more smoothly than cold cream. Take it out of the fridge 15 minutes before cooking. For extra garlic flavor in your garlic chicken pasta bake, roast whole garlic cloves alongside your dish during baking. Squeeze the soft, caramelized cloves over individual servings.

Another tip: layer half the pasta mixture, add extra cheese, then top with remaining pasta. This creates pockets of melted cheese throughout. Finally, if your sauce seems too thick, thin it with a splash of pasta cooking water. The starch helps the sauce cling to the pasta perfectly.

Storage & Reheating Tips

This easy creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Let the dish cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

For reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. For oven reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

You can freeze this chicken parmesan pasta bake for up to 3 months. Assemble the dish completely but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.

Label with the date. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding 10 extra minutes to the covered baking time.

Alternatively, freeze baked leftovers in portion-sized containers. These individual servings make quick lunches throughout the week. Defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.

This easy creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. If you’re looking for a delightful dessert to complement your meal, try our creamy strawberry crunch cheesecake recipe.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake easy recipe is hearty enough to stand alone, but sides make the meal complete. Start with a crisp green salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. The freshness balances the richness perfectly.

Garlic bread is a natural companion. Brush baguette slices with garlic butter and toast until golden. Alternatively, serve warm dinner rolls for soaking up extra sauce.

Roasted vegetables add color and nutrition. Try roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts with a squeeze of lemon.

For a complete Italian-inspired meal with your easy chicken pasta bake, start with bruschetta or caprese skewers as appetizers. A light soup like minestrone or Italian wedding soup works wonderfully. For beverages, serve iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio.

If you’re feeding kids like Lila and Jack, include fruit on the side. Grapes, apple slices, or melon provide a refreshing contrast. For special occasions, finish with tiramisu or panna cotta for an elegant Italian dessert.

FAQs

Can I make this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake easy recipe is perfect for advance preparation. Assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours before baking.

Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off. Add 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time since you’re starting with a cold dish. This makes it ideal for entertaining or busy weeknights.

How do I prevent my pasta bake from being dry?

Dry pasta bake happens when there’s not enough sauce or the pasta is overcooked initially. For this easy creamy chicken pasta bake, ensure you have plenty of sauce coating every piece of pasta before baking. Undercook the pasta by 2 minutes so it absorbs sauce without becoming mushy.

Cover the dish with foil during the first part of baking to trap moisture. If needed, add extra cream or chicken broth to the mixture before baking.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! While penne and rigatoni work beautifully in this garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake recipe, many pasta shapes work well. Choose sturdy shapes that hold sauce effectively.

Ziti, rotini, farfalle, or shells all work wonderfully. Avoid delicate pasta like angel hair, which becomes too soft. Keep the pasta amount the same regardless of shape. Larger shapes may need an extra minute of cooking time.

What’s the best way to shred chicken for this pasta bake?

For this creamy chicken parmesan pasta bake, you have several options. Dice cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes for even distribution. Alternatively, shred the chicken using two forks while it’s still warm.

For the easiest option, use rotisserie chicken from the store. Simply remove the skin, pull the meat off the bones, and shred or chop it. This saves significant time and adds wonderful flavor to your dish.

How do I know when the pasta bake is done?

Your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake easy recipe is done when the cheese on top turns golden brown and bubbly. The edges should be slightly crispy, and you’ll see the sauce bubbling around the sides. Insert a knife into the center—it should come out hot.

The internal temperature should reach 165°F. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil and continue baking until heated through completely.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake easy recipe serves 8 people. Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	580
Total Fat	28g
Saturated Fat	16g
Cholesterol	145mg
Sodium	680mg
Total Carbohydrates	42g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	3g
Protein	38g

This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake provides a balanced meal with substantial protein from chicken and cheese. The carbohydrates from pasta provide energy, while the creamy sauce offers richness and satisfaction. To lighten the dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese slightly. Adding vegetables increases fiber and nutrients without significantly changing the comfort-food appeal that makes this recipe special.

I hope this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake easy recipe becomes a favorite in your home like it is in mine. Every time I make it, I think about those simple Oregon evenings with family gathered around the table, sharing food and stories. That’s what cooking is all about—bringing people together with delicious, comforting meals made with love. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!

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This dish is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among families. The creamy garlic parmesan sauce enhances the pasta and chicken, creating a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week, similar to other popular pasta dishes like pasta.