Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake (Creamy, Comforting, and Oven-Baked)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the kind of dish I turn to when I want something deeply comforting yet dependable enough for both family dinners and casual entertaining. It combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, all baked together until bubbly and golden. I tested this recipe several times to get the balance just right; the garlic is present without overpowering, and the Parmesan adds depth rather than sharpness. What I appreciate most is how forgiving it is. I once made it with half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and the result was still luxuriously smooth. It is also a practical recipe, ideal for preparing ahead of time and baking later, which makes it perfect for busy evenings. If you enjoy creamy pasta bakes that feel indulgent but are straightforward to prepare, this recipe will quickly earn a place in your regular rotation.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breast forms the protein base of this dish. When cooked gently, it stays juicy and absorbs the garlic-Parmesan flavors beautifully. I prefer using boneless, skinless breasts, but thighs also work if you enjoy a slightly richer texture.

Pasta is the structural backbone of the bake. Short shapes such as penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well and remain sturdy during baking, ensuring every bite is evenly coated.

Garlic is the defining flavor element. Freshly minced garlic provides warmth and aroma that powdered alternatives simply cannot replicate in this recipe.

Butter and olive oil work together to build the sauce foundation. Butter contributes richness, while olive oil prevents it from feeling overly heavy.

Heavy cream creates the luxurious texture of the sauce. It thickens naturally during baking and binds the pasta and chicken together.

Parmesan cheese adds sharp, savory depth. Finely grated Parmesan melts smoothly and distributes evenly throughout the dish.

Mozzarella cheese is used for topping, giving the bake its irresistible golden crust and gentle stretch when served.

Italian seasoning brings balance with subtle herbal notes, enhancing the sauce without competing with the garlic.

Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning each layer, ensuring the final bake tastes full and rounded rather than flat.

Fresh parsley, while optional, adds a clean, fresh finish that brightens the richness of the dish.

Directions

Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and black pepper.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until lightly golden and just cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, taking care not to let it brown.

Pour in the cream and stir gently, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, mixing until smooth.

Combine the cooked pasta and chicken with the sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top.

Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Allow the bake to rest for five minutes before serving, then garnish with parsley if desired.

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 generous portions. Preparation takes approximately 20 minutes, cooking time is about 30 minutes, and total time from start to finish is around 50 minutes.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a small splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Variations and Customizations

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is highly adaptable, which makes it ideal for tailoring to personal preferences. For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream with milk; I have done this successfully without sacrificing too much creaminess. Adding vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms introduces color and nutritional value while blending seamlessly with the sauce.

If you enjoy a sharper flavor profile, try mixing in a small amount of Romano cheese alongside the Parmesan. For added heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred into the sauce works well without overwhelming the dish. You can also swap the chicken for cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken to save time.

Those who prefer a crispier topping can mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and Parmesan, then sprinkle this mixture over the mozzarella before baking. The result is a satisfying contrast between the creamy interior and crunchy surface.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	620
Protein (g)	38
Carbs (g)	42
Fat (g)	34
Saturated Fat (g)	18
Fiber (g)	3
Sugar (g)	4
Sodium (mg)	780

Expert Tips & Customizations

Balanced seasoning
Season the chicken and sauce in layers rather than all at once to achieve a more rounded flavor.

Cheese selection
Always grate cheese finely to ensure smooth melting and even distribution.

Rest before serving
Allowing the bake to rest briefly helps the sauce set and improves texture.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake up to a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Short, sturdy pasta shapes such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are ideal.

Can I freeze this pasta bake?

Yes, it freezes well for up to two months when stored in an airtight container.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely, simply use a gluten-free pasta of your choice.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can be added directly to the sauce.

How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?

Ensure the pasta is well-coated in sauce and avoid overbaking.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a reliable, comforting recipe that delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. Its creamy texture, savory depth, and adaptability make it suitable for both everyday meals and special occasions. Once you try it, it is likely to become a staple in your kitchen.

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