Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe: Creamy & Cheesy

For those nights when you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is the perfect answer.

Combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, this dish is baked to golden perfection with a bubbly cheese topping.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a comforting family dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

What Is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting casserole that combines the best of creamy pasta and cheesy baked goodness.

Featuring chunks of seasoned chicken, pasta coated in a rich Parmesan sauce, and a crispy, golden cheese topping, this dish is a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.

Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This recipe serves 6–8.

Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Additions:

• 1 cup broccoli florets (for added veggies)
• ½ cup diced sun-dried tomatoes (for a tangy twist)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

• Protein Options: Swap chicken for turkey, shrimp, or a plant-based chicken substitute.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with Asiago, gouda, or sharp cheddar for different flavors.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with a gluten-free alternative.
• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash in place of pasta.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce

• In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
• Stir in the flour and cook for another 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
• Reduce the heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

4. Assemble the Bake

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce, tossing until everything is evenly coated.
• Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

5. Bake

• Bake the casserole uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden topping, broil for the last 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

6. Rest and Garnish

• Let the pasta bake rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid it becoming too soft when baked.
• Burning the Garlic: Sauté garlic just until fragrant; overcooked garlic can turn bitter.
• Skipping the Roux: The butter-flour mixture is key to achieving a creamy, thick sauce.
• Forgetting to Broil: A quick broil at the end gives the dish its signature golden, bubbly cheese topping.

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Pair with Sides: Serve alongside a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Family-Style: Present the pasta bake directly from the baking dish for a cozy, inviting vibe.
• Individual Servings: Plate portions with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley for a restaurant-style presentation.

Expert Tips

• Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5–10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
• Reheat Leftovers: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.
• Freeze for Later: Store the unbaked casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver for this recipe.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cool completely, and freeze for up to 3 months.

What vegetables pair well with this recipe?
Broccoli, spinach, or roasted bell peppers are great additions to this dish.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe combines the comfort of creamy pasta with the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan.

Easy to prepare and packed with cheesy goodness, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion.

Try it tonight and savor the delicious flavors of this hearty, crowd-pleasing casserole!