Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is my kind of comfort food—warm, creamy, and packed with bold, cheesy flavor. Tender pasta is tossed with juicy chicken and a rich garlic parmesan sauce, then baked until bubbling and golden on top. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish I turn to when I want something easy and delicious for dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe brings together simple ingredients into one irresistible bake. The garlic parmesan sauce is rich and flavorful without being too heavy, and the crispy cheese on top adds the perfect finish. It’s great for feeding a family, making ahead, or serving at gatherings. Plus, it’s all baked in one dish for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)

• Pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)

• Butter

• Fresh garlic, minced

• All-purpose flour

• Milk or half-and-half

• Chicken broth

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Mozzarella cheese

• Italian seasoning

• Salt and black pepper

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. I start by preheating the oven to 375°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. I cook the pasta according to package directions, drain, and set it aside.

3. In a saucepan, I melt butter over medium heat, then sauté the garlic for about a minute until fragrant.

4. I whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes.

5. I gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

6. I stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

7. I combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce in a large bowl or directly in the baking dish.

8. I sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

9. I let it cool slightly before serving and garnish with chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings. Prep time takes about 15 minutes, and bake time is around 25 minutes. I can have it ready and on the table in about 40 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I add sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli for extra veggies. I’ve also used cooked bacon or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor. If I want to make it spicy, I add crushed red pepper flakes or use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through or use the microwave for a quicker option. If it’s a bit dry, I stir in a splash of milk or broth before reheating to bring back the creaminess. This dish also freezes well—I just let it cool completely before wrapping tightly and freezing for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, I often use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time. It works perfectly in this recipe.

What pasta shape works best?

I like using penne or rotini because they hold the sauce well, but any short pasta works great.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. I assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, I add 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce instead of making the garlic parmesan sauce?

Yes, I can use a high-quality jarred Alfredo sauce and stir in extra garlic and Parmesan for more flavor.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very! It’s creamy, cheesy, and mild, so it’s usually a hit with kids. I sometimes leave out any spices or green herbs when making it for picky eaters.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is one of those dependable dishes I keep coming back to. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavor, all in one easy-to-make meal. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just looking for leftovers to enjoy the next day, this pasta bake always hits the spot.