Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 3 cups heavy cream; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Homestyle Favorites

I love preparing this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake on busy weeknights when I’m looking for something comforting yet easy to make. It combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich garlic sauce that warms my soul. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; it all comes together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the aroma that fills my kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible. It’s a cozy meal that the whole family enjoys, and I can confidently say it’s a new favorite around here.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:53:36.662Z

One of my favorite parts about making this dish is that I can customize it with whatever vegetables I have on hand. The creamy garlic sauce pairs deliciously with broccoli or spinach, adding nutrition and vibrant color. Last week, I tossed in some cherry tomatoes, and the refreshing burst they added was fantastic!

Furthermore, using freshly minced garlic truly elevates the flavor compared to garlic powder. I usually sauté the garlic briefly before adding the cream to bring out its natural sweetness. This small step makes a significant difference in the overall taste of the bake, making it an unforgettable meal.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor that elevates the dish
Creamy texture that is comforting and satisfying
Versatile with a variety of add-ins like vegetables or spices

Perfecting the Pasta

The key to achieving the ideal texture for your pasta in this bake is to cook it al dente, which means it should still have a slight firmness when bitten. This will help prevent the pasta from becoming mushy during baking. Be sure to check the package instructions for timing, but typically, eight minutes works well for penne. After draining, consider rinsing the pasta briefly under cool water to stop the cooking process, especially if you’re using it later.

Another technique that enhances this dish is ensuring your pasta is well-coated in sauce before baking. As you mix the creamy sauce with the pasta and chicken, aim for an even distribution. The goal is for each piece of pasta to be enveloped in that deliciously rich garlic sauce, which not only contributes to flavor but also helps to keep the pasta moist during baking.

Crafting the Creamy Sauce

This creamy sauce is the heart of the dish, and the combination of heavy cream and cheeses creates that comforting texture. When mixing in the Parmesan, allow it to melt completely into the sauce for a glossy finish. If you find the sauce too thick after adding the cheese, a splash of chicken broth or additional cream can help reach your desired consistency without compromising flavor.

Infusing the sauce with garlic is crucial for a bold flavor. Sauté it just until fragrant—taking it beyond that point can lead to bitterness. If you're looking to tweak the flavor profile, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sauteing the garlic can introduce a delightful warmth that contrasts nicely with the creamy aspects of the dish.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

8 oz penne pasta
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
3 cups heavy cream
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and creamy sauce. Stir until everything is well coated.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve hot. Enjoy your creamy garlic chicken pasta bake!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add some sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the pasta bake for added flavor and nutrition.

Storing and Reheating

This pasta bake keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. To store, let the dish cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to enjoy a serving, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake it until heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but keep in mind that the oven will give you the best texture, especially if you like that cheesy top layer to remain bubbly.

For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled, uncooked dish. It’s best to freeze the pasta bake before it goes into the oven. Wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake from frozen, just add an extra 10 to 15 minutes to your baking time to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked through.

Flavor Variations

The beauty of this creamy garlic chicken pasta bake is its versatility. You can easily integrate vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers into the mix. If you opt for fresh veggies, sauté them alongside the garlic to avoid excess moisture seeping into your sauce. Alternatively, you can use frozen vegetables—it’s recommended to partially thaw them before adding to ensure even cooking.

For those who enjoy a bit of tang, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or olives for added depth. If you're feeling adventurous, swapping the chicken for cooked Italian sausage or even shrimp can provide a different flavor profile while still fitting within the creamy base of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, but the sauce may be less rich.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.