If you’re looking for a comforting, cheesy dish that’s packed with flavor, then this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is just what you need! This hearty casserole combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, all topped with a golden, crispy cheese crust. It’s the ultimate comfort food that will satisfy your cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds!
What makes this dish so special is the combination of creamy, garlicky flavors with the crunchy topping. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, making it both easy to prepare and delicious. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night at home, this pasta bake is sure to become a favorite in your household!
Get ready to indulge in this delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake!
Resume of the Recipe
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake features a creamy garlic sauce mixed with tender chicken and pasta, all topped with crispy cheese. Ready in about 45 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s rich, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a hit!
With straightforward ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up this delicious casserole in no time. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!
Exciting Story:
I remember the first time I made Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake for my family. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted to create something warm and comforting that everyone would love. As I sautéed the garlic and mixed it with cream and cheese, the enticing aroma filled my kitchen, making it hard to wait!
When the pasta bake came out of the oven, the golden, bubbly cheese was a sight to behold. The first bite was pure delight—the creamy sauce paired with tender chicken and pasta was everything I had hoped for. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite, bringing warmth and joy to our dinner table!
Why This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?
- Hearty and Flavorful: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a deliciously rich flavor.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in about 45 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness, it’s a hit with both kids and adults!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, and the creamy garlic sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
- Assemble the Bake: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and additional Parmesan cheese for a crispy topping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the pasta bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake!
Tips
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use leftover chicken or turkey.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add cooked vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Substitutions and Variations
- Different Pastas: Use gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Cheese Variations: Substitute mozzarella with provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Substitute some of the cheese with nutritional yeast for a lower-calorie option.
Closing
And there you have it! This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that will bring joy to anyone who tries it. Don’t forget to let us know how your dish turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more delightful meals!
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze the pasta bake?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking. - What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option. - Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but ensure it is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. - How do I know when the pasta bake is done?
The cheese should be bubbly and golden brown, and the casserole should be heated through. - What if I want to make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute chicken with a mix of cooked vegetables or beans for added protein. - Can I add spices to the dish?
Yes, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick! - How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme can enhance the flavor significantly. - What if I want to use a different cheese?
You can mix and match cheeses to find your favorite combination. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate before baking. - How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and check that your other ingredients are gluten-free. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
Course: All Word Recipes4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal0
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
2 cups 2 cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
2 cups 2 cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
3 cups 3 heavy cream
1 cup 1 grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
1 teaspoon 1 garlic powder
1 teaspoon 1 onion powder
1/2 teaspoon 1/2 salt
1/4 teaspoon 1/4 black pepper
1/2 teaspoon 1/2 dried Italian herbs (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
1 cup 1 shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon 1 olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)2 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
2 cups 2 cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
3 cups 3 heavy cream
1 cup 1 grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
1 teaspoon 1 garlic powder
1 teaspoon 1 onion powder
1/2 teaspoon 1/2 salt
1/4 teaspoon 1/4 black pepper
1/2 teaspoon 1/2 dried Italian herbs (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
1 cup 1 shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon 1 olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, and the creamy garlic sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
- Assemble the Bake: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and additional Parmesan cheese for a crispy topping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the pasta bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake!
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