Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. The creamy sauce envelops tender pasta and juicy chicken, all topped with that ooey-gooey mozzarella cheese that melts to perfection. Honestly, every bite is bursting with flavor from the garlic and parmesan, making it hard to stop at just one serving. What I love most is how simple it is to throw together, yet it tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Trust me, you’re going to want this in your dinner rotation!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (leftover rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, just make sure they’re chopped small)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that rich, creamy goodness)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (don’t skimp on this; it adds so much flavor)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (the more, the merrier!)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic punch)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or your favorite herbs)
- Salt and pepper to taste (always adjust to your liking)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing the garlic and chicken)
How to Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
Preheat the Oven and Cook the Pasta
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, go ahead and cook your penne pasta according to the package instructions. Don’t forget to salt the water a bit—it makes a world of difference in flavor! Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and set it aside. Trust me, this little step ensures your pasta doesn’t get mushy later on!
Sauté Garlic and Combine Ingredients
Now, grab a large skillet and heat up those 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it just until it’s fragrant—this is where the magic happens! You’ll love how your kitchen starts to smell. Next, toss in the shredded chicken and broccoli florets. Stir everything together until it’s heated through, which should only take a few minutes. Then, pour in that heavy cream, and sprinkle in the parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until it’s all beautifully combined and creamy. Oh my goodness, this is where the flavors really start to shine!
Mix and Transfer to Baking Dish
Time to bring it all together! Add your cooked pasta to the skillet and mix everything well, ensuring each piece of pasta is coated in that delicious sauce. Once it’s all mixed, transfer this creamy goodness into a baking dish. Don’t forget to scrape every last bit out of the skillet—there’s no need to waste any of that flavor! Top it off generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. The more cheese, the better, right?
Bake and Serve
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, waiting for that cheese to get bubbly and golden—just divine! Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but letting it cool just a bit helps everything set up nicely. Now, grab a plate and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this mouthwatering garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this will give you a good idea of what to expect:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein and flavor. You’ll feel satisfied and cozy after enjoying it! Just remember to balance it with some fresh veggies or a light salad on the side for a well-rounded meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: This garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip this up. Just follow along, and you’ll look like a pro!
- Creamy and Comforting: The combination of heavy cream and cheeses creates a rich, creamy sauce that envelops every bite, making it the ultimate comfort food. Seriously, it’s like a warm hug!
- Packed with Flavor: Garlic and parmesan bring a delightful punch to the dish, while the chicken and broccoli add heartiness and nutrition. Each forkful is bursting with flavor!
- Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or proteins! Got some spinach or bell peppers lying around? Toss them in! This recipe is a fantastic way to use up ingredients.
- Leftover Friendly: This dish is just as delicious the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. You can enjoy it again without any fuss!
- Family Approved: Kids and adults alike love this dish! It’s a surefire way to please everyone at the dinner table, so you can enjoy a stress-free meal together.
Tips for Success
Ah, the key to making this garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake truly shine lies in a few simple tips! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will help you create a dish that’s not just good, but absolutely fantastic.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook your penne pasta just until it’s al dente. This means it should still have a slight firmness to it. Why? Because it’ll soak up some of that creamy goodness in the oven without turning mushy. No one wants a soggy pasta bake!
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Taste as you go—this is where you can really make the flavors pop. A little extra salt and pepper can go a long way, especially when combined with the parmesan and garlic. Adjust it to your liking!
- Mix It Up: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to amp up the flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top just before serving gives it a lovely pop of color and freshness.
- Let It Rest: After you take your pasta bake out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the dish set a bit, making it easier to serve. Plus, it gives you a moment to savor that incredible aroma wafting through your kitchen!
- Don’t Skip the Broccoli: Adding broccoli isn’t just for nutrition; it also provides a wonderful crunch and balances the creaminess of the sauce. If you’re not a broccoli fan, try other veggies like peas or even sautéed spinach!
- Use Quality Cheese: Since cheese is a star in this recipe, opt for good quality parmesan and mozzarella. The flavor difference is noticeable and really elevates the whole dish. You deserve it!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a perfect garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake that will impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best parts about this garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to keep it exciting or to use what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations you might want to try:
- Veggie Packed: Want to sneak in more veggies? Go ahead and add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach! Just sauté them with the garlic to soften them up before adding the chicken and cream.
- Different Proteins: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, you can swap it out for cooked sausage, shrimp, or even diced tofu for a vegetarian option. Each protein brings its own unique flavor to the dish.
- Cheesy Delight: Feeling extra cheesy? Mix in some ricotta or cream cheese along with the heavy cream for an even creamier sauce. You can never have too much cheese, right?
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs! Basil, thyme, or even a bit of rosemary can elevate the flavor profile. Just chop them up and mix them in with the sauce for a fresh twist.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. It adds a delightful zing that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Italian Twist: For an authentic Italian flavor, add sun-dried tomatoes or olives. These ingredients will add a depth of flavor that transports your taste buds straight to Italy!
Don’t hesitate to get creative! This recipe is a blank canvas, so feel free to make it your own. Whatever you decide, I promise it’ll be delicious!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake and you’ve got some leftovers—lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat it so it tastes just as good the next day.
First off, let your pasta bake cool completely before storing it. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh and prevents it from drying out. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is super easy! If you’re reheating from the fridge, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pasta bake in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in and heat it for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If it’s frozen, you can either thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating or pop it straight into the oven from frozen; just know it will take about 40-50 minutes to heat all the way through. Oh, and you might want to remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to let that cheesy goodness get bubbly and golden again!
Want a quicker option? You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave! Just pop it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it (a microwave-safe lid or a paper towel works great), and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between, until it’s warmed through. Just be careful, it can get hot!
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake for days to come. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!
FAQ Section
Got questions about this garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common questions I get, along with my answers to help you along the way.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While I love penne for its perfect bite, you can use any pasta shape you prefer—fusilli, rotini, or even shells work beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the sauce might not be as creamy, but it’ll still be delicious!
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply swap out the regular pasta for a gluten-free pasta alternative. There are so many great options available now that taste fantastic!
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is super flexible. Feel free to throw in bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the garlic to soften them up before combining with the chicken and cream.
What can I serve alongside this dish?
A fresh side salad or some crusty garlic bread would pair perfectly with this pasta bake! You could also serve it with steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. The options are endless!
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes! It freezes beautifully. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly before freezing. You can enjoy it for up to 2-3 months!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pasta bake a day ahead and store it in the fridge before baking. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy it. Super convenient for busy evenings!
How do I know when it’s done baking?
You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden on top! It should look irresistible. Just let it cool for a few minutes before serving to let everything set nicely.
If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to ask! I’m here to help you make the best garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake ever!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake: 7 Comforting Layers
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and cheesy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add cooked chicken and broccoli, stirring until heated through.
- Pour in heavy cream, then add parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing well.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake