Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re searching for a meal that checks every box—creamy, cheesy, comforting, and absolutely packed with flavor—look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe! This is one of those iconic dishes that always gets rave reviews at the dinner table, whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself. The easy fusion of savory garlic Parmesan sauce, tender shredded chicken, and melty cheese all baked with pasta creates the kind of cozy experience you’ll crave again and again. Let’s dive into why you’ll want this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe on repeat in your kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is how just a few everyday ingredients can transform into pure comfort food bliss. Each component brings something special—texture from the pasta, rich creaminess from the sauces, and lots of gooey, irresistible cheese!

• Rotini pasta (1 lb): The twists and curves of rotini hold all that glorious sauce, but penne or rigatoni work just as well!
• Cooked chicken, diced or shredded (2–3 cups): Use rotisserie chicken for ease, or any cooked chicken you have on hand for heartiness and protein.
• Alfredo sauce (1 jar, about 15 oz): Brings luscious, creamy texture and indulgent flavor.
• Garlic Parmesan sauce (1 jar, about 15 oz): Adds a punchy garlic kick and even more cheesy goodness.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melts into gooey layers throughout and on top for the ultimate cheese pull.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Gives a nutty, salty depth and that perfect golden finish.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that let all the other flavors shine.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A burst of color and freshness as a finishing touch.
• Reserved pasta cooking water (1 cup, as needed): The secret to a silky, never-dry bake. Add if your mixture seems thick.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta just until al dente—about 8 to 10 minutes. Be sure to scoop out about a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy liquid will help loosen and bind the mixture in the next step if needed!

Step 2: Mix Everything Together

In a giant bowl (bigger is better!), combine your warm, drained pasta with the cooked, shredded chicken. Pour in the Alfredo and garlic Parmesan sauces, then sprinkle in half of your mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Don’t forget the salt and pepper! Stir it all up until every noodle gleams with creamy, savory sauce. If it looks a bit dry or too thick, drizzle in some reserved pasta water a little at a time.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—just a touch of oil or spray so nothing sticks. Scoop in the saucy pasta mixture and spread it evenly, making sure there’s a nice, level layer. Now, top everything with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for maximum melt and that golden-brown finish we all love.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Cover the dish snugly with foil and pop it into your preheated 375°F oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the whole dish is piping hot. If you’re after that perfect cheesy crust, remove the foil and broil for an extra 2 to 3 minutes—just keep a close eye so it doesn’t go from golden to burnt!

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Set the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe aside to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps everything set up slightly for easier serving. Just before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a little pop of green and freshness.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Garnishes

For that finishing restaurant-style touch, add a hearty sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a scatter of chopped fresh parsley right before serving. You can also add a few cracks of black pepper or even some red pepper flakes for a little zing!

Side Dishes

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe shines as a one-dish wonder, but a crisp green side salad or roasted vegetables complement the richness beautifully. Warm garlic bread is a natural pairing for soaking up every drop of the creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, bake the mixture in individual ramekins for a personal touch. Or, spoon the piping-hot pasta bake into hollowed crusty bread rolls for a unique handheld meal. For family-style gatherings, serve straight from the baking dish at the center of the table, letting everyone dig in for seconds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep happily for 3 to 4 days, making it a stellar choice for meal prep or quick lunches!

Freezing

This bake freezes surprisingly well. Simply cool completely, divide into portions, and wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty foil. Label and store for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat gently until warmed through, adding a splash of milk or water if it looks dry. You can also reheat in the oven (covered) at 350°F until bubbly. A quick broil at the end revives that gorgeous golden cheese layer!

FAQs

Can I make the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything up to one day ahead, store it tightly covered in the fridge, then bake just before serving. It’s a great way to get ahead for busy nights or when entertaining.

What’s the best substitute for garlic Parmesan sauce?

If you can’t find a pre-made garlic Parmesan sauce, you can mix extra Alfredo sauce with fresh minced garlic and a bit more grated Parmesan for a quick and easy swap!

How can I make this recipe lighter?

Use light Alfredo sauce, part-skim cheeses, and plenty of extra veggies like steamed broccoli or spinach to create a lighter version that’s just as satisfying.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta bake?

Definitely! Sautéed spinach, broccoli florets, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers all make fabulous additions, adding both color and a boost of nutrition to the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe.

What other proteins work in this dish?

Feel free to switch up the chicken with cooked turkey, sausage, or even diced ham—each one brings its own delicious spin and pairs perfectly with the creamy, garlicky sauce.

Final Thoughts

If you love cozy, cheesy comfort food, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe will become an instant favorite. It’s crowd-pleasing, easy enough for a weeknight, and customizable for whatever you have on hand. Give it a try soon—your taste buds will thank you!

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