If you’re craving a cozy, hearty meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor, then this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is just what you need. This dish features tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce all baked to golden, cheesy perfection. It’s the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the best of Italian-inspired flavors with the heartiness of a one-pan meal. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week ahead, or feeding a crowd, this pasta bake is guaranteed to satisfy. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with garlic and Parmesan goodness, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Plus, it’s super easy to put together and can be made ahead for added convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Cheesy

The combination of a rich garlic sauce with gooey melted cheese creates a wonderfully creamy and cheesy base that’s perfect for the chicken and pasta.

2. Quick and Simple

This pasta bake comes together in just a few simple steps—making it a great go-to recipe for busy nights when you want something filling and easy.

3. Packed with Flavor

With garlic, Parmesan, and juicy chicken, this bake is packed with flavor and offers a satisfying, savory taste in every bite.

4. Great for Meal Prep

This dish is perfect for preparing in advance. You can bake it and store it in the fridge for a quick, reheatable meal throughout the week.

5. Perfect for Feeding a Crowd

This pasta bake is a great option for gatherings or family dinners. It’s easy to double or even triple the recipe to feed a larger group.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts or thighs
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Garlic
Heavy cream
Chicken broth
Parmesan cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Italian seasoning
Cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or any short pasta)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for a vegetarian version.
Add Extra Veggies: You can easily add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas for added color and nutrients.
Cheese Variations: Swap the mozzarella for cheddar or Gruyère for a different cheesy flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist.
Use Different Pasta: You can use any type of pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or farfalle, depending on your preference.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts or thighs with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and then chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, and then stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped chicken, and garlic Parmesan sauce. Stir to coat the pasta and chicken evenly in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta mixture, covering it evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If desired, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes to get a golden, crispy top.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve the garlic Parmesan chicken pasta bake hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s juicy and tender. Overcooking can make it dry.
Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the sauce a better flavor than pre-minced or garlic powder.
Add More Cheese: For extra cheesiness, you can sprinkle some extra Parmesan or mozzarella on top before baking.
Make It Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time, covered, and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake it as directed when ready to serve.
Leftover Chicken: This is a great recipe to use up leftover chicken, making it a convenient option if you’ve got some on hand.

How to Serve

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is perfect as a standalone meal, but you can serve it with a side salad for some freshness or a piece of crusty garlic bread for a classic Italian-inspired touch. For a complete meal, pair it with a light, refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemon-infused water.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or heat the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Freezing

This pasta bake freezes well! To freeze, let it cool completely after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 375°F (190°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat from the refrigerator, microwave individual portions or bake the entire dish at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes after thawing.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative. They’re more flavorful and juicy, making them an excellent option for this dish.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Assemble it, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?

You can make a dairy-free version by using a dairy-free cream, plant-based cheese, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer—penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

6. Can I use store-bought garlic sauce instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use store-bought garlic sauce, but homemade garlic Parmesan sauce is simple and enhances the dish’s flavor.

7. Can I freeze the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Make sure to cool it completely before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

8. How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, you can cook it a bit longer to reduce it, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

9. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or even Gruyère for a different cheesy flavor.

10. Can I make this dish without cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. However, the sauce may be less rich.

Conclusion

The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a cozy, comforting, and indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful pasta, it’s a family-friendly meal that’s sure to please everyone. It’s simple to prepare, customizable to your tastes, and works great for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or preparing it in advance, this pasta bake will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.