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
Scale
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
