Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
If you are craving a meal that combines creamy comfort with a delightful garlic punch, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is your new best friend. This dish brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked rotini pasta, and a luscious blend of Alfredo and garlic Parmesan sauces that melt into cheesy goodness. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck favorite, this bake promises a hearty, satisfying experience that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a vital role—from the al dente pasta providing the perfect base to the rich cheeses layering on creamy indulgence and the chicken adding just the right amount of protein and heartiness.
- Rotini pasta (1 pound): Its spiral shape perfectly holds onto sauces, ensuring burst after burst of flavor.
- Cooked chicken (3 cups): Diced or shredded for tender, juicy protein that complements every bite.
- Alfredo sauce (2 jars, 15 ounces each): Creamy and smooth, setting the luxurious tone of the dish.
- Garlic Parmesan sauce (1 cup): Adds a rich, garlicky depth that makes this bake unforgettable.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups shredded): Melts beautifully, creating that gooey stretch everyone loves.
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup grated): Adds a sharp, slightly nutty finish that lifts the whole dish.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): A little warmth to balance the creaminess.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note at the end.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9-by-13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
Step 2: Combine Pasta and Sauces
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cooked rotini pasta, diced or shredded cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic Parmesan sauce, and half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. If you want your casserole saucier, add about half a cup of the reserved pasta cooking water to bring it all to a silky consistency.
Step 3: Assemble the Pasta Bake
Transfer the creamy chicken and pasta mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. This even spreading helps ensure consistent cooking and melting throughout the dish.
Step 4: Add the Cheesy Topping
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top. This final layer will melt into a golden, bubbly, irresistible crust while baking.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, letting all those flavors meld and the cheese fully melt and bubble.
Step 6: Optional Broil for a Golden Crust
If you love a golden top, remove the foil and broil for 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn but develops that perfect crispy, golden finish.
Step 7: Let Rest and Garnish
Allow the bake to cool for 5 minutes before sprinkling with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and mild herbaceous flavor. Serve warm and prepare to enjoy a dish that feels like a hug on a plate.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a vibrant green pop and fresh flavor contrast to the creamy richness of the pasta bake. You might also try a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or extra grated Parmesan for cheesier indulgence.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads dressed in tangy vinaigrettes or roasted seasonal vegetables that add texture and balance of flavors. Garlic bread or a simple crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this pasta bake in individual ramekins for a charming presentation at dinner parties. You can also layer it in clear glass baking dishes to showcase all of the cheesy, saucy layers—making it almost too pretty to eat, though it won’t last long!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delicious.
Freezing
This pasta bake freezes beautifully. Freeze it in a freezer-safe container either before or after baking, but be sure to cover it tightly. It will keep well for up to 2 months, making it a lifesaver for busy days.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes, to maintain its creamy texture and avoid drying out. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water or milk to bring back that saucy smoothness.
FAQs
Can I use other pasta shapes in this recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini works great because it holds sauce well, penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli would be delicious substitutes that grip the creamy sauce beautifully.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Adding red pepper flakes to the sauce or topping can introduce a lovely heat. You might also stir in some sliced jalapeños or diced chipotle peppers for a smoky, spicy twist.
Is it necessary to use cooked chicken?
Yes, using cooked chicken saves time and ensures even cooking in the bake. You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or quickly sauté chicken breasts beforehand.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach and consider adding plant-based protein options like chickpeas or tofu to keep it filling.
What if I don’t have garlic Parmesan sauce?
You can make a quick substitute by mixing melted butter with minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese. This will infuse your bake with that signature garlic flavor until you can get the sauce.
Final Thoughts
Jumping into this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is like giving your dinner routine a warm, cheesy upgrade. It’s perfect comfort food with rich layers of flavor that are easy to create and a joy to share. Trust me, once you try this simple yet decadent dish, it will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Happy baking and even happier eating!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting casserole combining tender rotini pasta, flavorful cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce. Topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked to bubbly perfection, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, delivering hearty flavors in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 pound rotini pasta, cooked and drained (reserve 1 cup cooking water)
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
Sauces
- 2 (15 ounce) jars Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup garlic parmesan sauce
Cheeses
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Garnish
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, diced or shredded cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic parmesan sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to your taste. If the mixture seems thick, add about ½ cup of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce and ensure extra creaminess.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture for a deliciously cheesy crust.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Optional Broiling: For a golden-brown top, remove the foil and broil the casserole on high for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the pasta bake to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake.
Notes
- Reserving pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency and adds flavor.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Use cooked chicken from rotisserie, leftover roast, or canned chicken as convenient options.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- To store leftovers, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
