Introduction
Transform simple ingredients into a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you crave a warm hug in a bowl. It’s so easy, even the kids can help!
Why This Works
This recipe hits all the right notes: creamy, cheesy, garlicky, and satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich parmesan sauce is irresistible. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
Key Ingredients
- 🐔 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 🍝 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 🧀 2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese
- 🌿 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 🥛 1 cup heavy cream
- 🧈 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3️⃣ While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4️⃣ Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don’t let it brown!
5️⃣ Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
6️⃣ Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7️⃣ Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
8️⃣ Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
9️⃣ Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Handy Tips
- Use pre-minced garlic to save time.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley works too (use about 1 tablespoon).
Heat Control
Oven temperature is crucial for achieving that perfectly bubbly and golden-brown topping. Don’t open the oven door too often while it’s baking, as this can affect the cooking time and the texture of the topping.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe is primarily creamy and comforting, you can add a crunch element by topping with some crispy breadcrumbs or toasted pine nuts during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Roast the chicken beforehand for extra flavor.
- Use different types of pasta for variety.
- Add some sauteed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This pasta bake makes a wonderful gift! Portion it into individual oven-safe containers and tie them with a pretty ribbon. Add a homemade bread roll for a complete gift.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
🌟 Mediterranean: Add sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
🌟 Creamy Pesto: Stir in 1/2 cup of pesto along with the heavy cream.
🌟 Veggie Delight: Add roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Troubleshooting
- Pasta is too dry: Add a little more heavy cream or milk.
- Chicken is dry: Make sure it’s not overcooked. Lower the oven temperature if necessary.
- Sauce is too thin: Simmer the sauce for a few minutes uncovered to thicken it.
FAQ
- Can I use different types of cheese? Yes! Asiago, Fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses will work well.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, assemble the dish up to the point of baking and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- Can I freeze this? Yes, you can freeze the baked pasta bake for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What kind of pasta is best? Penne, rotini, farfalle, or any short pasta shape will work well.
- My oven runs hot/cold. Should I adjust the temperature? Yes, adjust the temperature to your oven’s specific needs. You may need to shorten or extend the baking time or cover the bake to prevent burning.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do! Share your creations with us on social media – we’d love to see your beautiful pasta bakes!