Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

If you’re searching for a comforting and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan with tender chicken and pasta, then you’ve come to the right place. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even a cozy weekend dinner. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also makes enough to satisfy a crowd. Let’s dive into how you can make this mouthwatering dish at home.

What Makes Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Special?

This pasta bake stands out for its:

• Rich and savory flavors: The combination of garlic and parmesan cheese creates an irresistible depth of flavor.
• Comforting texture: Baked pasta dishes are renowned for their hearty, satisfying texture, with cheese and sauce melding beautifully into every bite.
• Easy preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken breast: 2 large, cubed or shredded
• Pasta: 2 cups of penne or rotini (any pasta that holds sauce well)
• Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, grated (freshly grated is best)
• Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, shredded
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Heavy cream: 1 cup for the sauce
• Chicken broth: 1/2 cup for a richer base
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Salt and pepper: To taste
• Dried Italian herbs: 1 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley: Optional, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

this recipe

1. Prep the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside. While the pasta is cooking, cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.

2. Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s no longer pink. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Remove the skillet from heat and set it aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream and chicken broth. Warm it over medium heat, stirring continuously. Add 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese to the mixture and stir until it melts and becomes a smooth sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.

4. Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken and garlic mixture, and the sauce. Add the remaining 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly coated.

5. Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with additional mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve warm. Enjoy this rich and comforting dish with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

• For extra flavor: Add a touch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Cheese variations: For a unique twist, try adding a bit of smoked gouda or provolone to the cheese blend.
• Make ahead: You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Assemble everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is perfect for satisfying your comfort food cravings while providing the nutritional balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. It’s also a versatile dish that pairs well with different sides, making it great for family dinners, potlucks, or even as leftovers for lunch the next day.

Health Benefits of This Dish

• Protein-packed: The chicken offers a great source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle repair and overall health.
• Calcium-rich: With parmesan and mozzarella cheese, this dish contributes to bone health.
• Customizable: You can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to boost the fiber and vitamin content.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a warm, satisfying dish that brings people together over a shared love of rich, cheesy comfort food. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a casual weekday dinner, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone who tastes it.

Serving and Storage Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Serving Tips

1. Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burns and to allow the flavors to settle.
2. Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a side of garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or sautéed vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.
3. Garnish for a Touch of Freshness: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, basil, or a few extra shavings of parmesan on top before serving for added color and flavor.
4. Portion Control: Cut the bake into generous portions, and for a more elegant presentation, serve it in individual ramekins or small bowls.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.
2. Freezing: This dish freezes well for up to 2-3 months. Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
3. Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from burning and to keep the cheese from drying out. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, but the oven method will maintain the dish’s texture and flavor better.
4. Add a Little Moisture: When reheating, especially after freezing, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to the dish before warming can help keep it from drying out.
5. Serving After Storage: If reheating from frozen, ensure the dish reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to be safe for consumption.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish at its best, whether fresh from the oven or as leftovers.

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

Yes, you can use different types of pasta, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. However, pasta shapes that hold sauce well, like penne or rotini, are recommended as they better capture the creamy sauce and add to the overall texture of the dish.

2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a mix of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Ensure the broth is vegetable-based and use a plant-based cheese alternative if desired.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pasta bake can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

4. Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by using non-dairy cheese alternatives and substituting heavy cream with a plant-based option such as coconut cream, soy cream, or cashew cream. Use dairy-free parmesan and mozzarella for the cheese toppings.

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