Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Craving a delicious and easy-to-make comfort food dish? Look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake! This casserole is loaded with tender chicken, pasta, a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and plenty of cheese, all baked to golden perfection. It's a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week. Read on for the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, and tips on how to customize it to your liking!

What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?

A Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a casserole dish made by combining pasta, chicken, and a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, topped with more cheese and baked until bubbly and golden. It’s an easy-to-make dish that delivers all the flavors of a classic Alfredo pasta with an extra cheesy twist. This casserole is both comforting and indulgent, perfect for cozy nights or when you want to impress guests without too much fuss.

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to make this cheesy and flavorful pasta bake:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini work well)
• 4 tablespoon butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2%)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for added crunch on top)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some variations to consider:

1. Different Protein: Swap the chicken for cooked shrimp, turkey, or even ground beef for a different flavor.
2. Add Vegetables: Incorporate broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers into the pasta for extra nutrition.
3. Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make this dish gluten-free.
4. Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix in different cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or gouda for a richer flavor.
5. Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside. Be sure not to overcook the pasta since it will continue cooking in the oven.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

If you haven’t already, cook and shred or dice the chicken. Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe because it’s easy and flavorful. Set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
2. Make a Roux: Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and slightly golden (this is called a roux, and it will help thicken the sauce).
3. Add Milk and Cream: Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to cook and whisk for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Stir in Cheese and Seasoning: Lower the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and garlic Parmesan sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta. For added crunch, mix panko breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and sprinkle that over the cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden. If you prefer a crispier top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end—just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm, and enjoy!

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

1. Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook your pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the bake.
2. Make a Roux for the Sauce: Creating a roux by cooking flour and butter together helps to thicken the sauce, making it creamy and rich without being too runny.
3. Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce Evenly: Mix everything thoroughly so that every bite has a perfect balance of pasta, chicken, and the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
4. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Baking the casserole until it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted to a golden-brown perfection is key to achieving that irresistible cheesy crust on top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to cook your pasta to al dente to avoid a mushy texture after baking.
• Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and creates a creamier sauce. Pre-grated varieties can sometimes be too dry and grainy.
• Skipping the Broil: If you want a crispier top, don’t forget to broil the casserole for a couple of minutes at the end. Just be careful not to burn it!

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

• Family Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a casual, family-friendly meal.
• Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, cut the casserole into squares and plate each serving with a garnish of fresh parsley and perhaps a side salad or garlic bread.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness to the rich, cheesy dish.
• Serve with a Side Salad: Balance the richness of the casserole with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette.
• Top with Extra Parmesan: For an extra cheesy experience, grate a little more Parmesan over each serving before serving.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble it, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven—just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making my own?

Yes! If you’re short on time, you can substitute the homemade garlic Parmesan sauce with about 2 cups of store-bought Alfredo sauce. However, making your own sauce is easy and adds a richer, more authentic flavor.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the entire casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just cover it tightly and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

3. Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?

Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble it without baking, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! This recipe works well with almost any pasta shape—try penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or even shells. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente before combining it with the sauce.

5. How long does this casserole last in the fridge?

This casserole will last for 3-4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a deliciously creamy and cheesy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining tender chicken, pasta, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, this casserole is packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, preparing for a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying meal that everyone will love!

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