Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake -

If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious meal that the whole family will love, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is an excellent choice. This dish combines tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta, wrapped in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella and extra Parmesan cheese. Not only is it satisfying, but it also makes for enticing leftovers. This recipe is straightforward, perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to adore this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake. First, it’s incredibly creamy and rich, which makes it a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out. Second, it brings together savory flavors of garlic and chicken that pair beautifully with the nutty taste of Parmesan cheese. Third, this dish is highly customizable; you can add your favorite vegetables, or swap chicken for another protein. Lastly, it’s a one-dish wonder, meaning fewer pots and pans to clean afterward. What could be better?

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to undercook the penne slightly since it will continue cooking while baking in the sauce.

Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic has a more robust flavor compared to jarred or pre-minced garlic, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Experiment with Cheeses: While Parmesan and mozzarella work beautifully, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gouda or cheddar for added flavor complexity.
Vegetable Variations: Consider adding spinach, peas, or roasted bell peppers for a boost of color and nutrition.

Soak the Chicken: Marinating the chicken pieces in olive oil, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes prior to cooking adds depth to the flavor.

Ingredients

The following ingredients are key to making this delectable dish. Gather them all before you start cooking to streamline the process:

300g penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup chicken broth

1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan for topping

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish with non-stick spray or butter, and set it aside.

Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and add in the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once it reaches a shimmer, add the chicken pieces. Season them with salt and pepper, and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Using the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.

Step 5: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, constantly stirring to form a roux.

Step 6: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer, stirring frequently, then cook until it thickens, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 7: Add in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and chili flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.

Step 8: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 9: Pour the creamy chicken and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the shredded mozzarella and the remaining grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 11: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works great, feel free to substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or even bow ties.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What vegetables can I add to this recipe?

You can incorporate a variety of vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. Just sauté them briefly before mixing them in with the pasta and chicken.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

To lighten it up, consider using skinless chicken breasts and reduced-fat cheese. You can also substitute whole milk with low-fat milk or almond milk.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is an ultimate comfort food that is both filling and flavorful. This dish is perfect for families or gatherings and makes for delightful leftovers. With its creamy sauce and cheesy topping, it is sure to impress anyone at the dinner table. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a hearty meal that brings warmth and satisfaction.