Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is an explosion of flavors wrapped in a cozy, cheesy embrace that just beckons for a fork. Picture this: golden-brown chicken, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce bubbling away in your oven. Twice Baked Potato Bites The aroma wafts through your home like a culinary hug that says, “Yes, you can eat your feelings!” For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe recipe.
Now, let’s not even talk about the joy of digging into this dish after a long day. This pasta bake has that magical quality of transforming simple ingredients into a heartwarming meal that makes even the grumpiest family member crack a smile. Trust me; you’ll want to whip this up not just for dinner but also for any occasion that calls for comfort food—like Mondays or any day ending with “y.”
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners less stressful.
- The flavor profile combines savory garlic and rich parmesan, creating an irresistible taste sensation.
- Visually appealing with its golden crust and bubbling cheese, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
- Versatile enough for potlucks or cozy family dinners, it fits perfectly into any occasion.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but feel free to adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
- Pasta: Any short pasta like penne or rotini works great here; they hold onto that creamy sauce beautifully.
- Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for maximum flavor; nobody wants sad-looking garlic in their life.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh if you can; it yields better flavor than pre-packaged stuff.
- Cream Cheese: For that luscious creaminess; it makes the dish feel like a warm hug from your grandma.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of your dish.
- Italian Seasoning: A must-have blend that adds depth and warmth to every bite.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so nothing gets stuck—because nobody likes playing archaeological dig with dinner.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions—remember, we want it firm enough to hold up when mixed with all those scrumptious ingredients.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan. Sauté until they’re golden brown and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Let them cool briefly before dicing into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and chicken broth until smooth. Stir in freshly minced garlic and Italian seasoning—this will become the velvety love potion for our pasta bake.
Step 5: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced chicken, sauce mixture, and half of the grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until everything is coated in creamy goodness.
Step 6: Bake It Up
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Top generously with remaining parmesan cheese and pop it into the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
And there you have it! Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake—a dish that’s not just food but an experience filled with laughter, love, and maybe just a few too many cheesy puns along the way! Enjoy every comforting bite!
You Must Know
- This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug on a plate.
- With its creamy sauce and cheesy goodness, it transforms any weeknight into a festive occasion.
- Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this dish promises smiles all around.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, start by searing the chicken to lock in those savory juices. While it’s sizzling away, boil your pasta until al dente. Then, whip up the creamy garlic sauce as the finishing touch to bring everything together seamlessly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your bake! Swap out the chicken for shrimp or sautéed veggies if you’re feeling adventurous. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or add some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy and prevent drying out in the microwave or oven.
Chef's Helpful Tips
1.
- Always cook pasta slightly underdone; it will absorb some moisture while baking, ensuring it’s perfectly al dente.
- For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
2.
- Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor; roasted garlic can also add a sweet depth to the dish.
3.
- Don’t rush the searing process—letting the chicken develop that golden crust enhances both texture and taste.
The first time I made this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, my friends declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” I still chuckle when I remember their faces as they dug in—pure bliss poured over gooey cheese and tender pasta!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?
To make a delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, you’ll need boneless chicken breasts, pasta (such as penne or rotini), garlic, Parmesan cheese, cream, and various seasonings like Italian herbs. Don’t forget to include vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition. One Pot Tomato Spinach Pasta This dish combines savory flavors and creamy textures, making it a family favorite. For the best results, opt for fresh ingredients to enhance the overall taste.
How long does it take to prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?
Preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake typically takes around 15–20 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes of baking time. Altogether, you can have this comforting meal ready in under an hour. The cooking process involves boiling the pasta, sautéing the chicken with garlic, mixing in the other ingredients, and finally baking until bubbly and golden. This makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time.
Can I customize the recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?
Absolutely! One of the best things about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. If you prefer a lighter dish, consider using whole grain pasta or swapping out heavy cream with a light alternative. Additionally, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and cheese according to your taste preferences.
Is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is an excellent option for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store individual portions in airtight containers. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. This dish holds up well in the fridge for up to four days, making it a convenient choice for lunches or quick dinners during busy weekdays.
Conclusion for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake :
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a versatile and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and rich flavors. With simple ingredients like garlic and Parmesan cheese, this bake is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your tastes. Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe It’s ideal for busy weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. Enjoy this comforting recipe that guarantees smiles around your dinner table!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food, marrying tender chicken with perfectly cooked pasta in a creamy garlic sauce topped with golden-brown Parmesan. This dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With its rich aroma and cheesy goodness, this bake is sure to become a beloved family favorite that brings smiles at the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Let cool before dicing.
- In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese and chicken broth until smooth. Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning.
- Combine cooked pasta, diced chicken, sauce mixture, and half of the grated Parmesan in a large bowl; mix well.
- Transfer to baking dish, top with remaining Parmesan cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the recipe (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
