Description
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a one-pan wonder! Perfect for cozy dinners, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups (250 g) cooked chicken, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or Alfredo sauce
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) reserved pasta water
- Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with thyme and black pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Stir in flour to form a roux. Gradually whisk in heavy cream or Alfredo sauce, cooking until thickened. Mix in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, chicken, and the garlic Parmesan sauce. Ensure everything is well coated.
- Assemble the Bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly on top. For a crispy crust, add breadcrumbs over the cheese.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Pasta Texture Matters: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente (firm to the bite) as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta may turn mushy after baking.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce feels too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out slightly. This helps the sauce coat the pasta evenly without drying out during baking.
- Customizable Toppings: For extra flavor and texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs, fresh herbs, or additional Parmesan cheese on top before baking. This creates a golden, crispy crust that elevates the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 MIN
- Cook Time: 25 MIN