Quick & Cozy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake converts ordinary ingredients into a culinary symphony of comfort and indulgence.

Rich, velvety cheese melts into every crevice, infusing the dish with irresistible warmth.

Succulent protein and tender pasta create a harmonious blend that satisfies deep hunger pangs.

Aromatic herbs and savory seasonings elevate this classic combination beyond simple weeknight fare.

Each forkful promises a delightful journey through creamy textures and robust flavors.

The golden-brown surface hints at the delectable experience waiting beneath its crispy exterior.

This crowd-pleasing meal brings families together with its irresistible aroma and soul-warming essence.

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake: A Comfort Food Favorite

• Indulge in Creamy Comfort: A heavenly blend of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and multiple cheese layers creates the ultimate comfort food that hugs your taste buds with rich, velvety goodness.
• Speed Up Weeknight Dinner: This one-pan marvel comes together in under 45 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy families who crave delicious, satisfying meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Cheese Lover's Dream: Packed with mozzarella and Parmesan, this dish delivers an irresistible cheesy experience that melts beautifully and provides a golden, crispy top that adds incredible texture and flavor.
• Protein-Packed Powerhouse: With an impressive 50g of protein per serving, this pasta bake offers substantial nutrition that keeps you full and energized, perfect for active individuals and growing families.

Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

• Chicken: Tender, lean protein that adds substance and flavor to the dish.
• Pasta: Base of the recipe, preferably a shape that holds sauce well like penne or rotini.

• Mozzarella Cheese: Melty, stretchy cheese that creates a gooey texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, aged cheese that provides a rich, nutty flavor.
• Alfredo Sauce: Creamy base sauce that binds ingredients together.
• Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Adds extra depth of flavor and cheesy garlic notes.

• Salt: Enhances overall flavor of the dish.
• Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
• Fresh Parsley: Bright, fresh garnish that adds color and light herbal notes.
• Pasta Water: Helps to adjust sauce consistency and bind ingredients.

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Crank up the oven to 375°F and generously coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create the Pasta Mixture

• Cooked pasta
• Shredded chicken
• Creamy Alfredo sauce
• Zesty garlic Parmesan sauce
• Half of the mozzarella cheese
• Half of the Parmesan cheese

Sprinkle in salt and pepper to enhance the flavors and mix thoroughly.

Step 3: Adjust Pasta Consistency

If the mixture seems dry, splash in some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy texture. This helps prevent the dish from becoming too thick or clumpy.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the cheesy pasta blend into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 5: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top, creating a tempting golden layer that will melt beautifully.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and slide it into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to become wonderfully bubbly.

Step 7: Create a Crispy Cheese Crust

Remove the foil and switch the oven to broil. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown with crispy cheese edges.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Let the pasta bake cool for 5 minutes to set. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve piping hot and enjoy your creamy, cheesy masterpiece!

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

• Boost Pasta Moisture: Reserve some pasta water to prevent dryness and help sauces coat noodles perfectly.
• Prevent Cheese Burning: Cover dish with foil initially to ensure even heating and protect cheese from scorching.
• Maximize Flavor Depth: Sauté garlic briefly before mixing to enhance its aromatic profile and intensify overall taste.
• Create Golden Crust: Use broiler strategically for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a crispy, golden cheese topping.
• Enhance Protein Tenderness: Let chicken rest after cooking to retain moisture and ensure juicy, succulent meat in the bake.

Storing and Reheating Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

• Refrigerator Storage: Transfer leftover pasta to an airtight container and seal tightly. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. Consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and food safety.
• Freezer Method: Wrap the pasta bake securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze up to 2 months. Frozen pasta maintains best quality when protected from air exposure.
• Reheating Technique: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Warm in the oven at 350°F covered with foil for 15-20 minutes. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent drying. Stir gently halfway through reheating to distribute heat evenly. Remove foil during the last 5 minutes to crisp the cheese topping and restore its delicious golden color.

Pairing Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake with Salad

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the rich, creamy cheese and complements the garlic's bold flavor, creating a refreshing balance on the palate.
• Serve with Zesty Caesar Salad: The tangy, garlicky dressing of a classic Caesar salad provides a bright contrast to the heavy, comforting pasta bake, adding a fresh dimension to the meal.
• Add Roasted Bruschetta on Side: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil brings a light, herbaceous element that enhances the cheesy chicken pasta's depth of flavor.
• Finish with Lemon Sorbet: A cold, citrusy dessert cleanses the palate after the rich, cheesy dish, offering a clean and refreshing end to the dining experience.

Fun Variations of Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

• Mediterranean Magic: Swap Alfredo sauce with sun-dried tomato pesto, add kalamata olives, and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version.
• Spicy Southwest Spin: Replace garlic Parmesan sauce with chipotle cream, mix in black beans, corn, and top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
• Veggie Lover's Dream: Substitute chicken with roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach, using a light cream sauce and adding nutritional yeast for extra flavor.
• Seafood Sensation: Swap chicken for succulent shrimp or crab meat, incorporate a light white wine cream sauce, and garnish with fresh dill for an elegant coastal-inspired dish.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

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4.8 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake brings Italian comfort straight to your dinner table. Creamy pasta, tender chicken, and golden-brown cheese create a delightful meal packed with rich flavors and irresistible aromas that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) rotini pasta, cooked and drained
• 3 cups cooked chicken, cut into pieces or shredded
• 2 jars (15 ounces/425 grams each) alfredo sauce
• 1 cup garlic parmesan sauce

Cheese:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Garnish:

• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Liquid:

• Up to ½ cup (118 milliliters) pasta cooking water

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch (23×33 centimeters) baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Combine fully cooked pasta, diced or shredded chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, zesty garlic Parmesan sauce, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese in a large mixing bowl.
3. Season the pasta mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
4. If the mixture appears dry, gradually incorporate reserved pasta cooking water to achieve a smooth, cohesive consistency.
5. Transfer the entire pasta and chicken blend into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top, creating a generous, even layer of cheese.
7. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, ensuring the cheese melts and the dish is heated thoroughly.
9. Remove the foil and switch the oven to broil, positioning the dish about 4-5 inches from the heat source.
10. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese turns golden brown and develops a slight crispy texture.
11. Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and the cheese to set.
12. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
13. Serve warm directly from the baking dish, ensuring each portion has a generous amount of cheese and chicken.

Notes

• Perfectly balance the creamy Alfredo and garlic Parmesan sauces for a rich, indulgent flavor profile that elevates this comfort food classic.
• Keep pasta slightly al dente before baking to prevent mushy texture and maintain a delightful bite in the final dish.
• Reserve some pasta water as a secret weapon to adjust sauce consistency, ensuring the perfect creamy coating for every pasta noodle.
• Customize the cheese blend by experimenting with different varieties like sharp cheddar or gruyère for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
• Prep ingredients in advance to make this crowd-pleasing meal a stress-free weeknight dinner solution that impresses family and friends.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 800 kcal
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 2200mg
• Fat: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 80g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 50g
• Cholesterol: 150mg