Hello, food lovers! If you’re looking for a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious dish, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is perfect for you. It’s a creamy, cheesy pasta casserole that’s easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy the whole family. Let’s jump into the recipe and create a dish that’s bound to become a household favorite.
Introduction
There’s something magical about a baked pasta dish. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake brings together tender pasta, juicy shredded chicken, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that’s baked to perfection with a bubbly mozzarella topping. Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish offers the perfect combination of comfort and indulgence. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and transform it into a restaurant-quality meal.
Ingredients
To prepare this delectable Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni work best)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Each ingredient works together to create a creamy and flavorful dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this rich and comforting pasta bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set it aside. Make sure to reserve a small cup of the pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cream begins to thicken.
Lower the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated in the sauce.
Gently fold the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring that every piece is well coated with the creamy sauce.
Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure consistent cooking. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden around the edges.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to settle. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and added freshness before serving.
Helpful Tips
To make your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake even better, consider these tips:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. It should be al dente since it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
- If your sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Cooking Tips
Here are a few additional tips for cooking this dish to perfection:
- Season as You Go: Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and chicken, adjusting the salt and pepper as needed.
- Make it Extra Cheesy: For an even cheesier dish, add a layer of grated Parmesan cheese underneath the mozzarella before baking.
- Use a Good Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet will ensure even heat distribution, preventing the sauce from scorching.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a hearty dish that pairs beautifully with simple sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or a warm loaf of garlic bread for a complete meal. For a special occasion, pair it with a glass of chilled white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy flavors.
Nutritional Information
This recipe serves 4 and provides approximately 520 calories per serving. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content:
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 27g
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Potassium: 320mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Vitamin C: 2%
- Calcium: 25%
- Iron: 8%
This dish is indulgent yet satisfying, offering a balance of carbs, protein, and creamy goodness.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: To reheat, place the pasta bake in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium heat.
Freeze: If you want to freeze this dish, assemble it without baking and cover it tightly with foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use other types of pasta like ziti, farfalle, or even spaghetti. The dish works well with any shape that can hold the sauce.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may not be as rich.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Related Recipes
If you loved this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, you might also enjoy these recipes:
- Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella
- Creamy Spinach Alfredo Pasta
- Classic Chicken Alfredo
- Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the epitome of comfort food. With its rich, creamy sauce and cheesy, bubbly top, it’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or hosting guests, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. We hope you enjoy making and savoring this recipe. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you’ve added!