Description
A comforting baked pasta dish made with tender chicken, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add butter to the skillet, let it melt, then whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce and mix until well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Add spinach or broccoli for extra vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American