Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

This cozy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake is my family’s favorite for chilly nights when we want something filling but simple to make. Tender chunks of chicken, plenty of garlic, and creamy Parmesan come together with comforting pasta and a golden, crunchy topping. Everything bakes in one dish for minimal cleanup and maximum comfort.

When I first made this, I was skeptical my picky eaters would go for the garlic and Parmesan combo, but now they beg me to double the batch. It makes any weeknight dinner feel special.

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast: Choose juicy, well-seasoned chicken or use leftover rotisserie for ease
• Pasta: Pick a sturdy pasta like penne or rigatoni that holds the creamy sauce well
• Garlic: Use fresh cloves for rich, aromatic depth
• Yellow onion: Look for onions that feel heavy and have no green shoots
• Fresh parsley: Adds color and brightness Pick bunches with crisp leaves
• Unsalted butter: Going unsalted lets you control the saltiness of your sauce
• All-purpose flour: Ensure no lumps for the best creamy texture
• Whole milk: Adds body and richness Use full-fat for the creamiest results
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated gives the boldest flavor and smooth melting
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts softly for stretchy goodness Use a block and shred it yourself if possible
• Salt and black pepper: Bring balance to the sauce Always taste and adjust as needed
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Add if you like a gentle heat
• Breadcrumbs: For the crunchiest topping choose plain or panko
• Melted butter: Mixes with breadcrumbs for the perfect golden finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Dish:

Set your oven to 375F or 190C and lightly grease a large baking dish so nothing sticks and cleanup stays easy

Cook the Pasta:

Boil pasta in plenty of salted water just until al dente so it does not get mushy later Drain well and set aside

Sauté Onion and Garlic:

Melt butter in your biggest skillet over medium heat Add the onion and cook gently for about three minutes until softened Stir in garlic and let it cook just one minute to become fragrant but not brown

Make the Roux:

Sprinkle flour on the onion and garlic mixture Stir constantly for a full minute so the flour loses any raw taste and blends

Whisk in the Milk:

Slowly pour in the milk whisking the whole time to make a lump-free sauce Keep over medium heat and keep whisking until the mixture thickens and is silky This takes about three to five minutes

Melt the Cheese:

Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella Let the cheeses melt fully for a smooth sauce Season with salt black pepper and red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat

Mix Chicken Pasta and Parsley:

Add the drained pasta and cooked chicken right into the skillet Toss in the chopped parsley Mix until every bite gets coated with sauce

Assemble in Baking Dish:

Pour everything from the skillet into your greased baking dish Spread evenly for a nice crust later

Prep the Breadcrumb Topping:

Melt butter and mix it with breadcrumbs in a small bowl Sprinkle this mix evenly over the top for serious crunch Add more Parmesan if you love extra cheesy bites

Bake Until Bubbly:

Transfer the dish to your oven Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes Watch for a golden crust and bubbling sauce You know it is ready when it smells irresistible

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and enjoy hot from the oven

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My daughter and I always sneak a little extra Parmesan into the breadcrumb mix We once made this to celebrate a big school win and it has been our comfort food tradition ever since

Storage Tips

Let your pasta bake cool before covering tightly and storing in the fridge It keeps well for up to three days Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until hot adding a splash of milk if you want it creamier Freezing works too just wrap portions well and thaw in the fridge overnight

Ingredient Substitutions

Use thigh meat for even juicier chicken or swap cooked turkey for a twist Gluten free pasta and breadcrumbs make it suitable for gluten free diets Half and half works if you are out of milk Use a mix of cheeses like fontina or white cheddar for extra melty goodness Add cooked spinach or broccoli for extra green

Serving Suggestions

This pasta bake pairs well with a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette and a side of garlic bread For a heartier meal serve with roasted asparagus or sautéed mushrooms Leftovers make a fantastic packed lunch just heat and go

Cultural and Historical Context

Baked pasta is an American favorite inspired by classic Italian casseroles like pasta al forno The creamy Parmesan sauce is a nod to Alfredo and the golden topping echoes the cozy bakes Italians love Most families have their own version and this one has evolved in my kitchen over countless cozy nights

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Common Questions

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne or rigatoni with other short pasta shapes like ziti or fusilli for similar results.

→ Is rotisserie chicken suitable for this dish?

Absolutely, rotisserie chicken works well and saves prep time, just shred or dice before adding.

→ Can I add vegetables to this pasta bake?

Steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms make tasty additions and boost the veggies in your meal.

→ How do I achieve a golden topping?

Ensure breadcrumbs are well mixed with melted butter and bake until browned and bubbly on top.

→ Is this dish freezer friendly?

Yes, assemble and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as instructed.

→ What can I serve on the side?

A fresh green salad and garlic bread pair well alongside this creamy pasta bake for a complete meal.