Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food dish—rich, cheesy, and full of savory garlic flavor. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce, then baked to perfection with pasta and melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. It combines simple pantry staples into a creamy, indulgent dish that’s easy to make yet feels special enough for guests. The Parmesan and garlic combo delivers a deep, savory taste, while the baked finish adds a golden, bubbly top layer everyone will crave.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• Penne or rigatoni pasta
• Garlic, minced
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Olive oil or butter
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden and fully cooked.
4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
5. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce slightly, about 5 minutes.
6. Add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth.
7. Combine the cooked pasta and chicken cream sauce in a baking dish. Mix well.
8. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.
9. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time
• Substitute the cream with half-and-half for a lighter version
• Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrients and color
• Swap Parmesan with Asiago or Romano for a twist
• Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. For the oven, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. Add a splash of milk or cream to maintain the creamy texture.

FAQs

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

Assemble the dish without baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding 10 extra minutes to the cook time.

Can I freeze the pasta bake?

Yes, assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.

What type of pasta works best?

Hearty pasta like penne, rigatoni, or ziti holds up well in this bake and traps the creamy sauce beautifully.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely. Rotisserie or leftover chicken works great—just stir it into the sauce before baking.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure all sauces and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter version.

Is there a way to make it vegetarian?

Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach as your protein replacement.

Why is my sauce grainy?

Grainy sauce can result from overheating the cheese. Add Parmesan off heat and stir gently to melt.

Can I make this spicy?

Yes, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for heat.

What cheese melts best for the topping?

Mozzarella gives a perfect gooey texture. You can also use a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for more depth.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a rich, satisfying dinner that’s both family-friendly and dinner-party worthy. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Make it your own with a variety of add-ins or enjoy it as-is—either way, it’s sure to become a household favorite.

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