Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Are you looking for a savory, comforting, and easy-to-make dinner that’s sure to satisfy the whole family? Look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake! This delightful dish combines the robust flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese with tender chicken and pasta, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Follow along to learn how to make this mouthwatering pasta bake, and be sure to read until the end for some handy tips and tricks to perfect your dish!

What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a hearty, casserole-style dish featuring tender chicken pieces, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and al dente pasta baked until golden and bubbly. It’s the ultimate comfort food, combining rich, cheesy flavors with the satisfying bite of pasta and the wholesome goodness of chicken. The recipe is easy to customize and can be made ahead for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s make sure you have all the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious dish. Here’s a comprehensive list:

• Chicken Breast (2 large, boneless, skinless): You’ll want to cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking and even distribution in the bake.
• Pasta (12 oz of penne or rigatoni): Penne or rigatoni works best because their tube shape holds onto the creamy sauce, but you can also use fusilli or ziti.
• Garlic (4-5 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic is key to infusing this dish with its signature garlicky flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese (1 ½ cups, grated): Use high-quality Parmesan for the best flavor, as it’s the star of the dish.
• Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded): This adds a melty, gooey texture to the bake.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): This helps create the rich, creamy sauce.
• Chicken Broth (1 cup): Adds depth to the sauce and helps thin it out just enough to coat the pasta perfectly.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the garlic and chicken.
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): For additional flavor and to help cook the chicken.
• Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of dried herbs that brings out the best in the garlic and Parmesan.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the chicken and the sauce.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor right before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake recipe is its versatility. Here are some easy substitutions and variations you can try:

• Chicken Thighs Instead of Breast: If you prefer dark meat, feel free to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They add extra juiciness to the dish.
• Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety if you have dietary restrictions.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach for a veggie-packed version.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free alternative for the cream, cheese, and butter. Coconut milk can be a good option for the sauce, and dairy-free cheeses will still give you that cheesy, satisfying bake.
• Add Bacon: For an extra indulgent twist, sprinkle some cooked, crispy bacon into the pasta before baking.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the garlic as you sauté it.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how you can prepare your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake from start to finish. This recipe is beginner-friendly and requires minimal prep, so it’s perfect for a busy day when you still want a comforting homemade meal.

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pasta bake cooks evenly.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until it’s al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook them until they are browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce, stirring to ensure everything is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water or additional chicken broth to loosen it.
6. Assemble the Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking this pasta bake is all about layering flavors and getting that perfect balance of creaminess and texture. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of each key step:

1. Prepping the Chicken: Always cut the chicken into even, bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly. Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps achieve a nice sear.
2. Making the Sauce: When making the garlic Parmesan sauce, it’s important to not overcook the garlic as it can turn bitter. Keep the heat at medium to low to control the sauce consistency.
3. Baking: Don’t skimp on the mozzarella cheese topping—it adds a luscious, golden-brown crust that’s key to the dish’s appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Al dente is the way to go. Remember that the pasta will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn easily, which would make the dish taste bitter. Keep a close eye on it and sauté it only until fragrant.
• Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a more pronounced flavor than pre-grated versions, which often contain anti-caking agents.
• Not Adding Enough Seasoning: Properly season each layer—chicken, sauce, and pasta—to ensure a flavorful dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The way you present your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake can elevate the dining experience. Here are some ideas:

• Family-Style: Serve the bake directly in the baking dish, allowing everyone to dig in at the table.
• Individual Servings: For a fancier presentation, plate individual servings and garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprig of fresh parsley.
• Serve with Sides: Pair this pasta bake with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to create a complete meal.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

To serve, use a large spoon or spatula to scoop out portions of the pasta bake. Be sure to get some of the deliciously crispy top layer along with the creamy pasta and chicken underneath. A sprinkle of fresh herbs and an extra dash of Parmesan on top goes a long way in terms of flavor and presentation.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

• Rustic Casserole Dish: Serve the pasta bake in the same dish you baked it in, keeping the rustic and homey feel intact.
• Garnish with Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil leaves add a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Serve on a Wooden Cutting Board: Place the hot baking dish on a large wooden cutting board for a cozy, family-style presentation.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the pasta bake a day ahead and store it in the fridge before baking. Just allow for a few extra minutes in the oven if you’re baking it from cold.
• Freeze for Later: This dish freezes well. After assembling, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to sneak in some veggies without compromising flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken, you can skip the cooking step and toss it directly into the sauce.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan and mozzarella are classic for this recipe, you could also use Gruyère, Asiago, or even cheddar for a twist.

3. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.

5. Can I add vegetables to the bake?
Definitely! Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms make great additions.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort dish, packed with flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a versatile, easy-to-make recipe perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!

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