Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together the flavors of garlic, chicken, and cheese in a hearty pasta dish. It’s perfect for family dinners or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, this pasta bake is sure to become a favorite!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for several reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Second, you can use rotisserie chicken, which saves time on cooking. Third, this dish is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a crowd pleaser. Lastly, it’s versatile and can be customized to fit your taste!

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly until smooth. Cook until the sauce thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
Stir in Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Serve this delicious pasta bake straight from the oven while it’s still hot. You can pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top just before serving.

How to Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal.

Tips to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook while baking.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
If you prefer a little more spice, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone. Additionally, you can substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp or add mushrooms for extra flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?
Yes, whole wheat pasta will work well in this recipe and add more fiber!

2. Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the pasta bake before baking it. Just cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a little extra cooking time.

3. Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?
Absolutely! Just cook and shred fresh chicken beforehand. It may take a little more time, but it’s still an excellent option.

Enjoy making your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake and witness how it brings smiles to your table!