Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed; 12 oz short pasta (penne or rotini); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

When I want to make something truly comforting that fills the house with incredible aromas, I always turn to my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy enough for a special gathering but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The creamy sauce, tender chunks of chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta come together under a golden, bubbly cheese topping—what’s not to love?

I first made this dish on a chilly evening when I wanted something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Since then, it’s become a family favorite. The garlic and parmesan add a savory richness, while the pasta soaks up all the creamy goodness. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers that taste even better the next day, this pasta bake never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

This dish brings together all the best elements of comfort food: creaminess, cheesiness, and that golden baked finish. It’s incredibly satisfying and easy to customize. You can prep everything ahead, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or pasta.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

For this recipe, I usually go with rotini or penne because they hold onto the creamy sauce so well. But honestly, any short pasta works—rigatoni, fusilli, even macaroni. The key is to cook it just shy of al dente, so it doesn’t get too soft when baked.

Options for Substitutions

Protein: Swap the chicken for turkey, cooked sausage, or even rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.
Dairy-Free: Use your favorite dairy-free cream, cheese, and butter alternatives.
Veggies: Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for an extra veggie punch.
Pasta: Gluten-free pasta works just as well here—just keep an eye on the texture so it doesn’t overcook.

Ingredients for this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Chicken breast (cooked and cubed) – The star of the show, bringing lean protein and hearty texture.
Short pasta (like rotini or penne) – Ideal for trapping the creamy sauce in every curve and nook.
Garlic (minced) – Adds a fragrant punch that infuses the entire dish with flavor.
Butter – Used to sauté the garlic and start the base of the sauce.
All-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce to the perfect creamy consistency.
Milk – Creates the base of the cream sauce; whole milk works best.
Heavy cream – Boosts the richness and smoothness of the sauce.
Parmesan cheese (grated) – Gives that deep, nutty, savory flavor.
Mozzarella cheese (shredded) – Melts beautifully on top for that gooey, golden finish.
Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning every layer of the dish.
Fresh parsley (chopped) – Adds a touch of color and brightness at the end.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to package directions, but remove it from the heat 1-2 minutes before it reaches al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

If you’re using fresh chicken, season it with salt and pepper, then cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden and cooked through. Cube it into bite-sized pieces. You can also use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, forming a light roux. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add Cheese to the Sauce

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and a portion of the shredded mozzarella. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is velvety. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl (or directly in your baking dish), combine the cooked pasta, cubed chicken, and creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Assemble the Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Optionally, add extra Parmesan for a crispier crust.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown on top. For an extra crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving for a burst of freshness.

How Long to Prepare the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Preparing this comforting pasta bake is quicker than it looks. From start to finish, you’ll be able to bring everything together in just under an hour.

Prep Time: It takes about 20 minutes to get everything ready—this includes cooking the pasta, sautéing the garlic, preparing the sauce, and dicing the chicken. If you’re using leftover or rotisserie chicken, this cuts down the prep time considerably.

Bake Time: Once everything is assembled in the baking dish, it bakes for about 20–25 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and golden on top. Rest it for 5 minutes before serving so everything sets perfectly.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Undercook the pasta slightly so it doesn’t turn mushy after baking.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor—it melts better and adds that classic nutty bite.
Taste the sauce before mixing it with the pasta; adjust the seasoning if needed.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick of heat.
Broil the top for 2–3 minutes if you want a beautifully crisp, golden cheese crust.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the roux step: If you don’t cook the flour for long enough, your sauce may taste floury.
Overcooking the pasta: It’s easy to forget it’ll cook more in the oven—keep it just shy of al dente.
Using pre-shredded cheese: These often contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Not seasoning in layers: Make sure to season the chicken, the sauce, and taste throughout.
Baking too long: Overbaking can dry out the dish. Remove it when the top is golden and bubbly.

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?

1. Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce on the plate.

2. Caesar Salad

A crisp, tangy Caesar salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the pasta.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roast some broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a colorful and nutritious side.

4. Sauteed Green Beans

Quickly sautéed with olive oil and lemon zest, they offer a bright contrast.

5. A Glass of White Wine

Something like a chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Let the pasta bake cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual servings. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Estimated Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 480mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover grilled, roasted, or rotisserie chicken works perfectly and cuts down on prep time.

What kind of cheese can I substitute for Parmesan?

You can try Romano or Asiago, though Parmesan offers the most classic flavor profile.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend for the roux.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Don’t boil the cream sauce—keep it at a gentle simmer and stir frequently to maintain a smooth texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is everything you want in a comfort food—easy, cheesy, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish will be on repeat. With a creamy garlic-infused sauce, juicy chicken, and melty cheese, it’s a timeless bake that never fails to please.