Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect dish for when you crave a hearty, cheesy meal that satisfies the whole family. This creamy pasta bake combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, garlicky sauce, all topped with bubbling, golden cheese. Ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend gatherings, this dish is as simple to make as it is delicious. With its creamy texture and cheesy topping, this pasta bake is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients:
To create this delicious dish, you’ll need 2 cups of uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work well), 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt and pepper to taste, 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 1/2 cups of shredded Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs (optional for topping), and fresh parsley for garnish.
Instructions:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set it aside. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned and cooked through, about six to seven minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Using the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about one minute until fragrant. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for three to four minutes until slightly thickened. Next, mix in one cup of Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into a smooth sauce. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat. Add the cooked pasta, mixing thoroughly. Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and optional breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the dish cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta Bake:
To ensure your pasta bake turns out perfectly, cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking. For a creamier sauce, make sure your Parmesan cheese is freshly grated as pre-shredded varieties don’t melt as smoothly. Adding breadcrumbs on top provides a delightful crunch, but you can skip this step if you prefer a softer texture. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions:
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. To elevate the dining experience, serve it alongside warm garlic bread or a simple bruschetta. If you’re entertaining, pair this pasta bake with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the creamy, cheesy flavors.
Storage Instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish also freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQ:
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and rotini work best due to their ability to hold sauce, you can substitute them with fusilli, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich and creamy.
Conclusion:
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors and creamy textures in one satisfying dish. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, and elegant enough for entertaining guests. With its delicious blend of garlic, Parmesan, and tender chicken, this pasta bake will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Serve it up hot, cheesy, and bubbling for a meal everyone will love.
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake: A Comforting Classic
Description
A creamy and cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake perfect for cozy dinners, combining tender chicken, pasta, and a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce.
Ingredients
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook pasta as per instructions, drain, and set aside.
2️⃣ Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until browned.
3️⃣ Sauté minced garlic in the same skillet, add chicken broth and heavy cream, simmer for 3-4 minutes.
4️⃣ Stir in 1 cup Parmesan, return chicken, and mix. Add pasta and toss to combine.
5️⃣ Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with remaining Parmesan, mozzarella, and breadcrumbs.
6️⃣ Bake for 20-25 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.