Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella makes this pasta bake irresistibly creamy and comforting.
• Packed with Flavor: The garlic, basil, and oregano infuse the sauce with a savory, aromatic profile.
• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this dish comes together quickly for a delicious weeknight meal.
• Versatile: You can easily adjust the protein or pasta type to suit your tastes.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta:
   • Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Sprinkle flour over the garlic-butter mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
   • Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
   • Stir in the Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Combine with Pasta and Chicken:
   • Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly with the creamy sauce.
6. Assemble the Bake:
   • Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Calories: 550 kcal per serving

Variations

1. Vegetarian Version:
   • Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option.
2. Spicy Kick:
   • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an added level of heat.
3. Cheese Lover’s Delight:
   • Increase the amount of mozzarella and Parmesan for an even cheesier bake.
4. Bacon Add-In:
   • Add crumbled bacon or pancetta for an extra savory flavor boost.
5. Gluten-Free Option:
   • Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration:
  • Store leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing:
  • This dish freezes well! Freeze the assembled, unbaked pasta bake in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Reheating:
  • To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any short pasta like ziti or elbow macaroni in place of penne or rigatoni.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with cooked sausage, ground beef, or even shrimp for a different protein option.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the pasta and chicken mixture in a slow cooker on low for 4 hours, then add the cheese and cook for another 20 minutes.

What can I serve with this pasta bake?

Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy pasta into one irresistible dish. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today for a hearty, satisfying meal!

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