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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Freshly baked garlic Parmesan chicken pasta with golden cheese

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and savory dish packed with tender chicken, rich Parmesan sauce, and perfectly baked pasta. A comfort food classic that’s easy to make for a family meal or meal prep!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large chicken breasts (or 34 boneless, skinless chicken thighs)
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & pepper (to taste)
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water (to adjust sauce consistency)

Optional Add-ons:

  • Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli
  • Protein Boost: Add bacon or Italian sausage
  • Spicy Version: Extra red pepper flakes or hot sauce

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Cook Pasta: Boil salted water, cook pasta al dente, drain, and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
3️⃣ Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a pan, season chicken breasts, cook for 6-7 minutes per side, shred and set aside.
4️⃣ Make Sauce: Melt butter, sauté garlic for 1-2 minutes, then add heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
5️⃣ Combine Ingredients: Mix cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and garlic Parmesan sauce in a bowl. Add ½ mozzarella and stir.
6️⃣ Assemble & Bake: Transfer to a greased 9×13” baking dish, sprinkle remaining mozzarella, and bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
7️⃣ Serve & Enjoy: Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

Make Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips: Oven: 350°F for 15 minutes (covered). Microwave: 1-2 minutes with a damp paper towel.
Pro Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.

NOTE: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and cooking methods.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake, creamy pasta bake, cheesy baked pasta, chicken pasta recipe, baked pasta dinner