If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that’s packed with savory garlic and parmesan flavors, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is your answer! Combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake brings together the best of Italian-inspired comfort food in one convenient dish. The combination of juicy chicken, buttery garlic sauce, and melty cheese creates layers of flavor that are both indulgent and satisfying. Plus, it’s ready in under an hour and requires minimal cleanup—making it ideal for any meal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken and Pasta:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts , sliced into strips or bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne, fusilli, or ziti work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for added richness)
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese , divided
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water for thickening)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley , chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Optional Toppings:
- Additional shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- Sliced cherry tomatoes or spinach for added color and nutrition
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil or melt the butter. Add the chicken and season generously with salt , pepper , oregano , and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked through (about 5–7 minutes per side). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic . Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Stir in the heavy cream , chicken broth , and cornstarch mixture . Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking continuously, until it thickens slightly (about 3–5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley until melted and smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Combine the cooked pasta , seared chicken , and garlic parmesan sauce in the prepared baking dish. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese (and optional mozzarella or cheddar) over the top for extra cheesiness.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes .
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10–15 minutes , or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Let the bake rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley and serve hot alongside crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Making the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta : Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it doesn’t become mushy after baking.
- Customize the Cheese : Swap out some Parmesan for Gruyère, Asiago, or even feta for unique variations.
- Add Veggies : Stir in roasted broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Make It Spicy : Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers.
- Meal Prep Friendly : Prepare the dish up to a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake when ready—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is pure comfort in every bite. Its rich, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in one delicious, family-friendly dish. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or dressed up for guests, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and savor the magic of this cheesy masterpiece!
If you loved this recipe, explore more comforting pasta bakes and casseroles on our website. From lasagnas to ziti, we’ve got everything you need to keep your meals cozy and flavorful. Happy cooking! 🍴✨
