Marry Me Pasta: Delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a must-try if you love creamy, cheesy dishes. This comforting recipe combines tender chicken, al-dente Pasta, and rich, savory garlic parmesan baked to perfection. This dish is perfect for a family meal or meal preparation. It offers convenience and flavor. What’s the best part? The best part?

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Garlic Parmesan chicken pasta bake will be a big hit, whether you want to feed a large crowd or treat yourself. This pasta bake can be adapted to suit different tastes and diets by adding or reducing the amount of garlic.

Let’s examine the main ingredients and see how to make this delicious dish!

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

To make a flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 large chicken breasts (or 3-4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless)
• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli works best)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (for thinning sauce, if needed)

With these ingredients, you’ll be able to create a delicious, creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake that’s perfect for any occasion!

Step-by-Step Recipe Guide: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Follow these easy steps to make the best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake at home.

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure an even bake for your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake.

2. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
• Add 12 oz of pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best).
• Cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Drain the pasta and reserve ½ cup of pasta water for the sauce.

3. Cook the Chicken

• While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Season 2 large chicken breasts with 1 ½ tsp of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
• Remove from heat, let it rest, and shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

4. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
• Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
• Gradually add 1 ½ cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Combine Everything

• In a large mixing bowl, combine:
  – Cooked pasta
  – Shredded chicken
  – Creamy garlic Parmesan sauce
• Stir everything well, adding ½ cup of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
• Mix in ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for extra creaminess.

6. Assemble and Bake

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the pasta mixture into it.
• Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
• Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

7. Serve and Enjoy!

• Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for a restaurant-style finish.
• Serve your creamy, cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake with garlic bread or a crisp salad for the perfect meal.

Expert Tips for Perfecting Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Want to make the best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake every time? Follow these expert tips to enhance flavor, texture, and overall quality.

1. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan for the Best Texture

• Always opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese.
• Why? Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly, affecting the creamy consistency of your sauce.

2. Avoid Overcooking the Chicken

• Overcooked chicken becomes dry and chewy, reducing the dish’s overall enjoyment.
• To keep the chicken tender and juicy:
  Use medium-high heat for a quick sear.
  Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer.
  Let it rest for 5 minutes before shredding to retain moisture.

3. Make It Ahead for Easy Meal Prep

• This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is great for meal prep!
• You can assemble the dish in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

4. Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor & Nutrition

• Elevate your pasta bake by adding nutrient-rich vegetables such as:
  Spinach – Adds freshness and blends well with the creamy garlic sauce.
  Mushrooms – Provides a rich, umami depth.
  Broccoli – Brings a slight crunch and enhances the dish’s nutritional value.

5. Use Pasta Water to Adjust the Sauce Consistency

• If your Garlic Parmesan sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water (¼ to ½ cup) to thin it out while maintaining flavor.
• The starchy pasta water helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.

6. Bake Until Golden & Bubbly for the Best Texture

• For the perfect finish, bake until the cheese topping is:
  Golden brown
  Slightly crispy on the edges
  Bubbling hot

By following these pro tips, you’ll take your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake to the next level of deliciousness!

Variations on Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Try these delicious twists on the classic Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake:

• Vegetarian Version: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or roasted tomatoes for a hearty meatless option.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in crushed red pepper or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Mushroom Lovers: Sauté mushrooms with garlic for a rich, earthy depth.
• Bacon Lovers: Add crispy bacon for a smoky, savory upgrade.
• Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for low-fat Greek yogurt to cut calories while keeping it creamy.

Customize your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake to match your taste and enjoy a new twist every time!

Presentation and Serving Ideas

Consider the following suggestions to improve the taste and presentation of your Garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake.

• Garnish your pasta bake with fresh herbs. Sprinkle a handful of fresh parsley or basil on top just before serving. This gives the dish a vibrant color, and the fresh aromas balance the richness.
• Serve this dish with a light salad. A light salad goes well with the creamy pasta. Choose a salad with a mix of greens or the classic Caesar to provide a fresh contrast to the rich flavors in the baked pasta.
• Add some garlic bread. No pasta dish would be complete without it. Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken pasta bake and warm buttery garlic bread to create a satisfying, comforting meal. This bread is great for slathering up leftover sauce.
• A squeeze of fresh lemon, before serving gives to the dish and cuts through the richness, enhancing the flavors in the garlic parmesan.

This simple but effective presentation will help you take your Garlic and Parmesan Pasta Bake up a notch, making it an appealing and balanced meal.

Pasta Bakes, Their History and Popularity

Many cultures enjoy comfort foods such as garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake. Pasta dishes originated in Italy and were usually combined with baked sauces and cheeses to make a delicious meal. Over time, the dish was adapted in many different countries. Each culture added its unique twist. Pasta bakes are popular during the colder months when people want hearty meals.

Pasta Bakes have gained popularity in recent years due to their versatility. These pasta bakes are a favorite among families and weeknight meals because they combine vegetables, proteins, and Pasta in one dish.

The Related Recipes You Might Enjoy Next

You may also like these recipes if you enjoy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake:

• Chicken Penne is a rich, creamy pasta dish with a crack chicken flavor.
• Mongolian Ground Beef noodles: Easy and delicious dinner recipe A flavorful noodle dish that is a tasty alternative to pasta bakes.
• Mississippi Mud Potatoes: A rich and cheesy potato side dish that goes well with Garlic Parmesan Chicken pasta.

All these recipes share the comforting quality of a pasta dish.

FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bake

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a delightful and versatile dish that offers a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy flavors and hearty chicken. Whether you’re preparing a meal for your family, hosting a dinner party, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to impress. Its simplicity, combined with the rich taste of garlic and parmesan, makes it a go-to favorite for many.

This recipe not only provides comfort but also offers the opportunity to get creative with various variations and add-ins. From customizing the sauce to experimenting with vegetables or different types of cheese, you can make this pasta bake your own. Plus, with the ability to store leftovers or make it ahead of time, it’s as convenient as it is delicious.

By following the tips and suggestions provided, you can elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake to new heights, ensuring a meal that’s not only satisfying but also enjoyable to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe is a great addition to your repertoire.

So go ahead, give it a try, and see why this dish is quickly becoming a favorite in kitchens everywhere. With its rich flavors, comforting textures, and customizable nature, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is sure to be a dish you’ll want to make again and again!

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