Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
Here’s a Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake recipe that’s rich, comforting, and perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd.
Total Time
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 large chicken breasts, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
For the Sauce:
3 tbsp olive oil
5 garlic cloves, minced
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2½ cups whole milk (or half-and-half for richer sauce)
1 cup heavy cream
1½ cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pasta Bake:
12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup parmesan (for topping)
Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente.
Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Sauté until golden and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a rough
Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Simmer until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
Stir in parmesan, salt, pepper, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
4. Combine and Assemble
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, and the sauce. Mix well.
Pour into a greased 9×13” baking dish.
Top with mozzarella and extra parmesan.
5. Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crispier cheese top.
6. Serve
Let cool for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley or basil.
Serve hot!
Tips & Variations
- Add veggies: sauteed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli work great.
- Spice it up: add more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Swap cheese: try gouda or fontina for a twist.
Nutrition information
Calories: 650
Protein: 38g
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 680mg