If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that satisfies the whole family, look no further than this delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake recipe. With its rich garlic flavor, creamy parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly baked pasta, this dish is sure to become a go-to for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide on how to make this irresistible dish, including tips, variations, and serving suggestions. Let’s dive into the ultimate comfort food experience!

What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a classic baked pasta dish that combines savory chicken, aromatic garlic, and creamy parmesan sauce, all layered with tender pasta and baked to perfection. This dish is incredibly comforting, featuring all the familiar flavors we love in Italian-inspired cuisine, but with a delicious baked twist. The combination of creamy cheese, garlic-infused chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can easily be customized to suit your preferences.
Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
To make this flavorful and filling dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 3 cups of pasta (penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- ¼ cup bread crumbs (optional for added crunch)
Ingredients List for the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
For the creamy garlic parmesan sauce that makes this dish shine, gather these ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- ½ cup chicken broth (optional for thinning the sauce)
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Chicken Substitute: You can replace the chicken with turkey, sausage, or even shrimp for a different protein. For a vegetarian option, substitute with mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.
- Pasta Choices: While penne and rigatoni are great choices for baked pasta, feel free to use any pasta you prefer, like fusilli, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta if you need to avoid gluten.
- Cheese Variety: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, or gouda for a different cheesy flavor. You can also add a bit of cream cheese to the sauce for extra creaminess.
- Lighter Version: To make a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, and opt for whole wheat pasta. You can also cut down on the cheese if desired.
- Herbs & Spices: Add fresh basil, thyme, or oregano to the sauce for an extra herbaceous note. If you love a bit of heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get started with the step-by-step process for making this delectable Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat while you prepare the ingredients.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: If your chicken isn’t already cooked, season it with salt and pepper, then sauté it in a pan with olive oil until golden brown and fully cooked. Shred or dice the cooked chicken and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth (if using). Stir continuously until the sauce thickens. Mix in the parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, remove from heat.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and the garlic parmesan sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella and a bit more parmesan cheese. If you want an extra crunchy topping, sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a breakdown of the key steps to perfecting your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake:
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta: Make sure your pasta is cooked just to al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Step 2: Sauté Garlic: Cooking the garlic until it’s fragrant ensures that your sauce is infused with that irresistible garlicky flavor.
- Step 3: Make the Sauce: Creating a creamy, thick sauce is essential. Make sure to whisk constantly when adding the cream to avoid lumps.
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients: Thoroughly mixing the pasta, chicken, and sauce ensures even flavor distribution throughout the bake.
- Step 5: Add Cheese Topping: The final touch of cheese creates that golden, melty finish we all love.
- Step 6: Bake to Perfection: Keep an eye on the dish as it bakes, and remove it once the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the pasta: It’s essential to cook the pasta to al dente, as it will soften further during baking.
- Burning the garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, so only sauté it for a minute or two until fragrant.
- Sauce too thin or thick: Be careful when adding the flour and liquid to the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth or cream. If it’s too thin, cook it a little longer until it thickens.
- Uneven cheese distribution: Make sure to evenly spread the cheese on top so you get a consistent cheesy crust.
Serving and Presentation Tips
For the best dining experience, serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake with a few thoughtful touches:
- Serve with sides: This pasta bake pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
- Family-style: Serve the bake in the baking dish and let everyone help themselves, which makes for a cozy, casual meal.
- Garnish generously: Don’t forget to top the bake with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and extra flavor.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
This dish is best served hot out of the oven with the cheese still melty and the pasta warm. You can dish it out in hearty portions and serve alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors.
Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
For a more polished presentation:
- Individual portions: Scoop out servings into small individual gratin dishes for an elegant, restaurant-style presentation.
- Top with herbs: Garnish each plate with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a dusting of parmesan for a finished look.
- Serve with lemon wedges: A slice of lemon on the side adds a bright, acidic touch that complements the richness of the dish.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe Tips
- Make-ahead option: You can assemble the entire dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s been chilled.
- Freezing: This pasta bake freezes well. You can freeze it before or after baking, just be sure to wrap it tightly. When ready to cook, bake straight from the freezer, adding extra time as needed.
- Extra veggies: Sneak in some vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver for this recipe. Just shred the chicken and add it to the dish.
2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta and swap the all-purpose flour in the sauce for a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or rice flour.
3. Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, feel free to substitute with cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone. Just make sure the cheese melts well.
4. How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a warm, comforting meal that's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. With its rich, creamy sauce and flavorful combination of garlic and parmesan, it’s sure to please any crowd. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow, delicious, and versatile. Try it out, customize it to your liking, and enjoy a delightful, home-cooked meal!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy dish filled with tender chicken, flavorful garlic, and a rich Parmesan sauce, baked to golden perfection. It's perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering comfort food with a gourmet touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts, cooked and cubed
- Pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- Parmesan cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Garlic, minced
- Cream or milk
- Butter
- Olive oil
- Salt & pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter, sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in cooked chicken, cream, and Parmesan. Let simmer until thickened.
- Mix the sauce with the cooked pasta, then pour into a baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Substitute cream with milk for a lighter version.
- Add veggies like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680 mg
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