Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Looking for a comforting yet delicious meal that everyone in the family will love? This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is a must-try! Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Stick around to learn all the tips, tricks, and secrets to make this dish irresistibly delicious. Read the entire article to master this ultimate pasta bake and wow your loved ones!

this Recipe

What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a hearty casserole that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, a creamy garlic-infused sauce, and loads of parmesan cheese. Baked to perfection, it's topped with a golden-brown crust that adds a delightful crunch to every bite. This dish brings together the best flavors of a classic pasta dish with the satisfying texture of a casserole. It’s a comfort food lover’s dream that’s sure to become a household favorite!

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need to prepare this delectable Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake:

Pasta and Chicken

• 2 cups of uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• 2 cups of cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups of chicken broth
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon of dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon of dried basil
• ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)

Topping Ingredients

• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup of breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
• 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some substitutions and variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:

1. Pasta: You can swap the pasta for gluten-free options or even use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
2. Chicken: Feel free to use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to save time. For a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu.
3. Cheese: If you’re not a fan of parmesan, you can use Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheese instead.
4. Cream: To make it lighter, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative.
5. Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can replace dried herbs for a more robust flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let's move on to the step-by-step process of creating this delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions.
• Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

• If you're using uncooked chicken, season it with salt and pepper, then cook in a skillet over medium heat until it's no longer pink inside.
• Let the chicken cool slightly, then shred or cube it.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux.
• Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth.
• Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
• Add the parmesan cheese, dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
• Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and the creamy garlic parmesan sauce.
• Mix everything well to ensure the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
• Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs.

Step 6: Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
• Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide

To perfect your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, follow these additional tips for each step:

1. Pasta: Cooking the pasta just until al dente is key. It will continue to cook in the oven, absorbing all the flavors of the sauce.
2. Sauce: Whisk continuously while making the roux to avoid lumps. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture.
3. Baking: Keep an eye on the oven during the last few minutes to avoid over-browning the top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Remember that the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so slightly undercook it during the boiling stage.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks very quickly and can turn bitter if burned, so keep the heat medium-low when sautéing.
• Not Letting the Sauce Thicken: A thin sauce won’t cling to the pasta well, so make sure to simmer it until it reaches the right consistency.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A beautifully presented Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake can make your meal feel extra special. Here are some tips to elevate your serving and presentation game:

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

• Family-Style: Serve directly from the baking dish for a casual, family-style dinner.
• Individual Portions: Scoop out generous portions and plate them with a side salad or garlic bread.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness to each serving.
• Serve with a Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top can enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe Tips

1. Make Ahead: You can prepare the pasta bake a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Freezing Instructions: This dish freezes well. Just make sure to cover it tightly and store it for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating Tips: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to refresh the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? A: Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken works perfectly in this dish and saves you time.

Q: Can I make this pasta bake gluten-free? A: Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Q: How do I prevent my pasta bake from drying out? A: Cover the dish with aluminum foil if you find the top is browning too quickly or if the pasta seems dry. You can also add a bit more cream to the sauce if needed.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe? A: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or a mix of Italian cheeses for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with the rich flavors of garlic and herbs. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. With our step-by-step guide, common mistake tips, and presentation ideas, you’re all set to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try tonight, and don’t forget to bookmark this recipe—you’ll be making it over and over again!

Print