garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake: A Flavor-Packed Delight

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Introduction

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dish that’s packed with flavor, look no further than Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake. This irresistible casserole brings together tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese. Topped with a golden, cheesy crust, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser that is perfect for a weeknight dinner, family gatherings, or even a cozy meal for one.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients, you can create a satisfying and decadent meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The savory garlic-infused sauce, combined with the nutty, salty Parmesan cheese, creates an indulgent flavor that’s simply unforgettable. Whether you’re feeding a large group or preparing a quick meal for your family, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake will never disappoint.

In this article, we’ll explore why this dish is a must-try, guide you through step-by-step instructions on how to prepare it, and offer tips and variations to make this pasta bake your own. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to make a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake

  • Simple Ingredients: Made with common ingredients like chicken, pasta, garlic, and Parmesan, this dish comes together quickly without compromising on flavor.
  • Creamy and Cheesy: The rich, creamy garlic sauce pairs perfectly with the melted cheese, creating a dish that’s incredibly indulgent.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: This pasta bake makes a great make-ahead meal that can be stored in the fridge for a few days or frozen for future meals.
  • Family-Friendly: With its comforting flavors and cheesy goodness, it’s a meal that everyone in the family will enjoy.
  • Customizable: You can adjust the recipe to suit your preferences, whether that means swapping out the type of pasta or adding more veggies.

Preparation Time and Servings

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (15 minutes for prep, 1 hour for baking)
  • Servings: This recipe yields about 6 servings.
  • Nutrition Facts (per serving): Calories: 550, Protein: 34g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 28g.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake:

  • 1 lb (450g) chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this dish. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat.
  • 12 oz (340g) pasta: Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works well in this recipe. Use your favorite variety.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the chicken and adding flavor to the dish.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic provides a robust flavor and aroma that forms the base of the creamy sauce.
  • 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
  • 1 cup milk: For a balanced creamy texture in the sauce.
  • 1 ½ cups shredded Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt better and provide a richer flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme gives the sauce extra depth.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice adds brightness to the dish and balances the richness.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the chicken and the sauce.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Topped on the pasta bake, mozzarella adds a stretchy, gooey, cheesy layer.

Optional Garnish:

  • Chopped parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
  • Extra Parmesan cheese: For sprinkling on top before baking or serving for an extra cheesy finish.

instructions

First Step: PREPARE THE CHICKEN AND PASTA

  1. Cook the Chicken: Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Second Step: MAKE THE GARLIC PARMESAN SAUCE

  1. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a bit more olive oil if necessary and sauté the minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
  2. Add the Cream and Milk: Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
  3. Incorporate the Parmesan and Seasonings: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Add the Italian seasoning, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Continue to stir until everything is well combined and the sauce has a velvety texture.

Third Step: ASSEMBLE THE PASTA BAKE

  1. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Stir gently to coat everything in the sauce. Be sure that the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
  2. Transfer to a Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  3. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta mixture. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed to create a nice, melty layer.

Fourth Step: BAKE AND FINISH

  1. Bake the Pasta Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. If you prefer a more crispy top, you can broil the pasta bake for the last 2-3 minutes, but be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.
  2. Cool and Garnish: Once the pasta bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Final Step: SERVE AND ENJOY

  1. Serve the Pasta Bake: Slice the pasta bake into portions and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. The creamy, cheesy pasta bake is rich enough to stand on its own, but adding a fresh salad or some vegetables adds balance and variety to the meal.
  2. Enjoy the Flavor Explosion: With every bite, you’ll experience the delightful combination of garlic, Parmesan, tender chicken, and gooey cheese, making this dish an instant favorite.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a versatile and indulgent dish that can be served in many different ways. Here are some great ideas to make your meal even better:

1. Pair with a Simple Side Salad

A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta bake. You can go for a classic Caesar salad, a fresh mixed green salad, or even a Greek salad to balance the flavors.

2. Serve with Garlic Bread

For an extra indulgent meal, serve the pasta bake with garlic bread or crusty baguette slices. The garlic and buttery goodness of the bread make it a perfect accompaniment to the creamy, cheesy pasta.

3. Add Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables, like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots, make a great side dish for this pasta bake. The roasted flavors add a nice contrast to the rich and creamy pasta.

4. Serve as a Family Dinner

This pasta bake is a perfect dish for feeding a family. It’s easy to make in a large batch, and everyone will enjoy the comforting, cheesy flavors. It’s also great for leftovers, so you can enjoy it for lunch the next day.

Recipe Variations for garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake

While the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize the recipe to suit your tastes:

1. Swap the Chicken for Shrimp or Sausage

If you’re not a fan of chicken, consider swapping it out for shrimp or Italian sausage. Both options work wonderfully in this dish and bring different flavors to the table.

2. Make it Veggie-Only

For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also add some chickpeas or tofu for added protein.

3. Use a Different Cheese

While Parmesan and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone. These cheeses melt beautifully and will add a unique flavor to the pasta bake.

4. Spice it Up

If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce or stir in some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

  1. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s golden brown on both sides and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  2. Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides a much richer flavor than pre-grated Parmesan. If possible, grate it yourself for the best results.
  3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will bake in the oven, make sure it’s cooked al dente. It will continue to cook as it bakes, so if it’s too soft to start with, it could become mushy.
  4. Add Flavor with Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, basil, or thyme make great additions to this dish. Sprinkle them on top after baking to brighten up the flavors and add a burst of color.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly baked pasta into one irresistible dish. With its rich, cheesy flavor and easy preparation, this pasta bake is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead. Try it today and enjoy the mouthwatering combination of garlic, Parmesan, and pasta in every delicious bite. Whether you make it as is or customize it to your liking, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your household.