Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g penne pasta; 500g chicken breast, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

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I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake! It combines everything I adore into one comforting dish: tender chicken, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. On busy nights, this recipe is a lifesaver as it’s not only easy to prepare but incredibly satisfying. Each bite is a warm hug, and it’s a favorite among my family and friends. Plus, it’s versatile enough that you can add in extra veggies or adjust the seasoning to fit your taste. It’s perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:48:47.912Z

When we first made this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The combination of garlic and cream really elevates the dish, making it feel indulgent without a lot of fuss. I recommend using freshly grated cheese for the best melting effect; it truly makes a difference!

One of my favorite tips is to sauté the garlic in the chicken drippings right before mixing in the cream; this really infuses the sauce with deep, savory flavors. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you as the cheesy pasta and tender chicken come together in the oven for a delightful finish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, garlicky goodness that brings a smile to your face
Easy to adapt with your favorite vegetables or proteins
Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner

Ingredient Insights

The star of this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake is undoubtedly the combination of heavy cream and cheeses. Heavy cream adds richness and a luxurious mouthfeel, while the Parmesan cheese contributes a savory depth that enhances the overall flavor. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based milk alternative, but be aware that this may alter the creaminess and thickness of the sauce.

Using fresh garlic is crucial in this recipe as it provides a vibrant and aromatic punch to the dish. Ready-minced garlic can save time but can lack the fresh flavor that elevates the sauce. If fresh garlic is unavailable, try garlic powder, using about 1 teaspoon for every clove. However, be cautious not to overdo it, as powdered garlic can become overpowering.

For the chicken, you can easily swap out boneless, skinless thighs for breast meat if preferred. Thighs offer a more succulent texture and can enhance the overall flavor of the bake. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a couple of minutes longer to cook through.

Baking Perfection

When transferring your pasta mixture to the baking dish, ensure it's spread evenly to guarantee consistent cooking. If the pasta remains overly crowded in the baking dish, the cheese may not brown properly or could lead to uneven textures. Ideally, aim for a flat layer that allows the cheese to melt uniformly, creating that coveted golden, bubbly surface.

Keep a close watch during the baking process, specifically around the 15-minute mark. Ovens can vary in heat distribution; if you notice the cheese isn’t bubbling but is becoming too dark, consider covering it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the interior to cook thoroughly. Your bake is done when the cheese reaches a beautiful golden brown and the edges start to crisp.

If you have leftover pasta bake, it can be stored in the fridge for up to three four days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and place it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes, or until warmed throughout. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to use an airtight container and it will keep for up to three months.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

300g penne pasta
500g chicken breast, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook for 5-7 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and half of the Parmesan cheese to the skillet, mixing everything well to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.

Bake the Dish

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake hot from the oven!

For a delightful twist, try adding some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the mix!

Pro Tips

To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking it from scratch. This will reduce your prep time significantly while still giving you that delicious flavor!

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake is versatile when it comes to serving options. For a complete meal, pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. This offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. If you're entertaining, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a warm focaccia to scoop up the creamy goodness.

To elevate the dish further, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top just before serving. These additions not only introduce extra flavor but also add a visual appeal that can impress your guests. Remember to adjust these toppings according to your personal heat preference.

For a fun twist, you can turn this bake into meal-sized portions by using individual ramekins, which are perfect for gatherings. Just make sure to monitor the cooking time as smaller portions may bake a bit quicker than a standard dish.

Variations to Try

Feel free to explore different flavor profiles by integrating various vegetables into your bake. Spinach, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes can be excellent additions that not only enhance the nutrition but also add visual appeal with their vibrant colors. Be sure to sauté any fresh veggies before adding them to the pasta to ensure they are tender and release their moisture effectively into the sauce.

Changing up the cheese blend can also lead to exciting results. Instead of just mozzarella and Parmesan, consider mixing in some smoked Gouda for a distinct flavor or a sprinkle of feta for a tangy twist. Just remember to keep the ratios similar to maintain the creamy consistency.

If you want to add a little protein variety, try incorporating some cooked bacon or sausage into the mix. It infuses the dish with a smoky undertone that complements the garlic beautifully. Just be mindful of the richness by balancing out the overall cheese content.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works well and adds a nice nutty flavor.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Yes, this pasta bake freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It's delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.