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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

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This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake is a comforting, cheesy, and garlicky family dinner that comes together easily and is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Tender chicken, pasta, and a silky sauce are baked to golden perfection for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta (about 3/4 box)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (rotisserie or poached)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 5–6 fresh garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon salt)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
  • Pinch crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • 1/4 cup extra parmesan cheese (for topping)
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until just al dente (1-2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, without browning.
  4. Sprinkle in flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in milk, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Pour slowly and keep whisking to avoid lumps.
  6. Bring sauce to a simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened. If too thick, add more milk or broth.
  7. Stir in parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Whisk until melted and smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
  8. In a large bowl, toss cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and creamy garlic parmesan sauce until evenly coated.
  9. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle extra mozzarella and parmesan on top.
  10. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Stir in extra parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over pasta.
  11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until top is golden brown and sauce is bubbling. Cover loosely with foil if topping browns too quickly.
  12. Let pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

For gluten-free, use GF pasta and flour blend. Add veggies like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. Use freshly grated parmesan for best results. Let bake rest before serving for a neater slice. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken pasta bake, creamy garlic parmesan, family dinner, comfort food, easy casserole, weeknight meal, cheesy pasta, oven baked pasta

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