Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a cozy fusion of tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and pasta baked to perfection. This recipe blends Italian-inspired flavors of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs for a hearty dish that’s sure to satisfy. With lean protein, whole-grain or gluten-free pasta, and calcium-rich cheese, this bake provides robust flavor and nutrition. It’s versatile for weeknight dinners or gatherings and easily adaptable for various dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
- High in Protein and Nutrients
This bake combines lean chicken breast with Parmesan and mozzarella, packing protein along with calcium and vitamins from cheese and garlic. - Perfect for Make-Ahead and Freezer Meals
Assemble in advance and bake later, ideal for meal prep. It also freezes well for future meals. - Family-Friendly and Customizable
Mild, comforting flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike. Easily add vegetables, adjust the pasta type, or try a new cheese blend. - Balanced Flavor Profile with Creamy, Cheesy Texture
The garlic, Parmesan, and herbs add savory depth to the sauce, while the melted cheese on top gives a comforting, gooey texture.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Ingredients List
For the Main Dish
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup whole or low-fat milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high, add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside. - Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Add minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for 1 minute. Add milk, heavy cream, and Parmesan, stirring until smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened. - Combine Pasta and Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce, coating the pasta and chicken in the garlic Parmesan sauce. - Assemble the Bake
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with shredded mozzarella. - Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden top, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes. - Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tip: Marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning for 15–20 minutes before cooking for extra flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. A light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy pasta.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To freeze, portion the pasta bake into individual servings and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat covered in the oven at 300°F (150°C). Add a splash of milk or cream for extra moisture.
Variations of Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
- Vegetarian Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bake
Omit chicken and add roasted vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. - Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Bake
Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles to keep it low-carb. Zucchini allows the garlic Parmesan sauce to shine. - Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
Mix ¼ cup buffalo sauce with the garlic Parmesan sauce and use sharp cheddar for a spicy twist. - Gluten-Free Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free, ideal for those with gluten sensitivities.
FAQs
- Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Shred rotisserie chicken and add it to the sauce with pasta. It saves time and adds flavor. - What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a similar consistency with less fat. - How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?
Cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking. Adding a splash of milk before baking also helps. - Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Spinach, broccoli, and mushrooms are excellent additions that complement the dish. - What’s the best cheese to use?
Mozzarella and Parmesan work well, but feel free to try other cheeses like provolone or Gruyère. - How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or use spicy cheese like pepper jack. A drizzle of hot sauce also works. - Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives. Coconut cream can replace heavy cream, and dairy-free cheeses provide the cheesy flavor. - How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge. Freezing extends shelf life to approximately 2 months.
This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake combines classic flavors in a cozy dish, perfect for any occasion. With creamy sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese, it’s a favorite for all ages and easily adaptable for different dietary needs.