Looking for a comforting dinner that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor? This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect solution. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender chicken and pasta, this dish is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious homemade meal ready in no time.

Ingredients

12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rigatoni works best)
2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is a great option)
3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.

Step 3: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens (around 5 minutes).

Step 4: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and prepared sauce. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and extra Parmesan on top.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Any short pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or shells will work well.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes. Store the baked pasta in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

4. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese.

5. How can I add more vegetables?

Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli to the pasta mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.