Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and hearty main course featuring tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich, buttery garlic Parmesan sauce. Baked to golden, bubbly perfection and topped with melted mozzarella, this dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Pasta
- 12 oz cooked pasta such as penne or rotini
- 2 cups cooked shredded or cubed chicken
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Make the sauce base: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Create the roux: Sprinkle the flour into the butter and garlic, whisking constantly and cooking for another minute to form a smooth paste.
- Add liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps, then stir in the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Incorporate cheese and seasoning: Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine pasta and chicken: Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Assemble the bake: Pour the creamy chicken pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Rest and garnish: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut for cooked chicken in this recipe.
- Use pasta shapes like penne or rotini to hold the sauce well.
- This dish can be made ahead and baked when ready to serve.
