Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Oh my gosh, I just tried Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake! It is so yummy and smells amazing.

I was hungry one day and found this recipe. The chicken is soft, and the garlic and cheese make it taste so good.

I can’t stop thinking about each creamy bite. My family finishes it so fast!

So, I really think you should give it a try. You will love how easy it is to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family Favorite: This cheesy pasta bake is a hit with both kids and adults. It’s the kind of meal that gets requests for seconds.
• Easy and Satisfying: Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and it all bakes together for a warm, comforting meal.
• Creamy, Cheesy Goodness: Alfredo and garlic parmesan sauces blend together, coating the pasta and chicken in a rich, creamy layer.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as good the next day—maybe even better!
• Customizable: Add veggies, swap cheeses, or use different pasta shapes to make it your own.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: About 55 minutes

Servings:

This recipe makes 6 hearty servings—great for a family dinner or meal prep.

Difficulty:

Easy. It’s beginner-friendly but still feels like a cozy, homemade classic.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet for cooking chicken (optional if using pre-cooked chicken)
• Baking dish (9×13 inch works well)
• Mixing bowls
• Cheese grater
• Spoon or spatula
• Foil (optional, for covering during baking)

Key Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Here’s what you’ll need (exact measurements will be in the recipe card later):

• Rotini Pasta: Holds onto the sauce well, but any pasta like penne or rigatoni works too.
• Cooked Chicken: Leftover, rotisserie, or freshly cooked chicken breasts—shredded or cubed.
• Alfredo Sauce: Creamy base that ties the dish together.
• Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Adds a garlicky, cheesy punch.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, stringy top layer.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Brings a salty, nutty flavor and gives the top a golden finish.
• Pasta Water (Optional): Helps loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.
• Salt & Black Pepper: For seasoning the pasta and chicken.
• Fresh Parsley: For a pop of color and freshness.

Variations for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
• Switch Up the Cheese: Use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone for different flavors.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Swap the Protein: Use cooked sausage, turkey, or even shrimp.
• Bake It Crispy: Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake – Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water (just in case), then drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken (If Needed)

• If using pre-cooked chicken, skip this step.
• If using raw chicken, season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
• Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then cut it into bite-sized cubes or shred it.

3. Mix the Sauces and Pasta

• In a large bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce and garlic parmesan sauce.
• Add the drained pasta and cooked chicken to the bowl.
• Toss everything together until well coated.
• If the mixture seems too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

4. Assemble the Bake

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.
• Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
• Finish with a layer of grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake the Pasta

• Cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.
• Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil.
• Continue baking for 10-15 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Once baked, let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes.
• Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving for a fresh, colorful touch.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

This creamy pasta bake is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with simple sides can round out your meal:

• Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Green Salad: A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the rich, cheesy pasta.
• Steamed Veggies: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add color and freshness.
• Roasted Tomatoes: Sweet, roasted cherry tomatoes pair well with the creamy garlic sauce.

Serving Tip:

Serve straight from the baking dish for a casual family dinner, or scoop onto plates and sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for a more polished look.

Storing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Leftovers:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens too much.

Freezing:

• Freeze (Before Baking): Assemble the pasta bake but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To Bake from Frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: The pasta will continue to soften while baking, so don’t overcook it during boiling.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: It’s a time-saver and adds great flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the bake rest after cooking helps the sauce settle and prevents it from being too runny.
• Taste the Sauce Before Baking: Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Every brand of Alfredo and garlic sauce varies.

Nutrition Information (Estimated per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount (Approximate)
Calories	480 kcal
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	9g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	800mg

(Note: Nutrition values may vary based on specific products used.)

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake FAQs

Q: Can I use other pasta shapes?
A: Yes, penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble the bake, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

Q: How do I make it less rich?
A: Mix in some chicken broth or milk to lighten the sauce.

Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Absolutely. Spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms are great choices.

Q: What if I don’t have garlic parmesan sauce?
A: Double the Alfredo sauce and add 2 cloves minced garlic and ½ cup grated Parmesan to get a similar flavor.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a simple, satisfying dish that fits right into busy weeknights or relaxed family gatherings. Creamy sauce, tender pasta, and cheesy goodness—it’s everything you need in a comforting meal.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this pasta bake will leave everyone asking for more. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments!