Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake

This garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing comfort dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. The creamy, cheesy sauce coats every bite of tender pasta and juicy chicken, creating the ultimate weeknight dinner solution when you need something substantial yet easy to prepare.

I first created this recipe when hosting an impromptu dinner party with little time to prepare. The dish was such a hit that it has become my go-to for potlucks and family gatherings where I need something reliably delicious that pleases everyone at the table.

• Rotini pasta cooked al dente provides the perfect texture and shape for holding all that creamy sauce
• Reserved pasta water contains valuable starch that helps thicken the sauce and bind everything together
• Cooked chicken whether rotisserie store-bought or leftovers adds hearty protein to make this a complete meal
• Alfredo sauce creates the creamy base that brings everything together without requiring you to make a sauce from scratch
• Garlic parmesan sauce intensifies the flavor profile and adds an extra dimension of richness
• Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully to create that irresistible cheese pull when serving
• Parmesan cheese adds a sharp savory note that balances the creaminess of the other ingredients
• Salt and pepper may seem simple but they are crucial for bringing all the flavors into harmony
• Fresh parsley brightens the rich dish with color and a hint of freshness

How To Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Prep the Oven

Preheat your oven to 190°C and prepare your baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. This temperature creates the perfect environment for heating the pasta through while melting the cheese without burning it.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add enough salt to make it taste like seawater. This seasons the pasta from within as it cooks. Boil the rotini until just al dente about 1 minute less than package directions since it will continue cooking in the oven. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining.

Mix the Components

In a spacious mixing bowl combine your cooked pasta shredded chicken both sauces and half of each cheese. The warm pasta will slightly melt the cheese creating pockets of gooey goodness throughout the dish. Season with salt and pepper and mix thoroughly until every piece of pasta is coated. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the mixture.

Assemble and Bake

Transfer your pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish spreading it evenly to ensure consistent cooking. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses over the top creating a blanket that will form a golden crust. Cover with foil to trap moisture and heat allowing the flavors to meld together during the first part of baking.

Create the Golden Finish

After the covered bake time remove the foil and switch to broil setting. Watch carefully as the cheese browns to perfection this usually takes just 2 to 3 minutes but can happen quickly. This step creates that irresistible browned cheese top that everyone fights over.

Rest Before Serving

Allow the pasta bake to rest covered for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. This crucial step lets the sauce thicken slightly and the flavors settle. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving for a professional touch.

This pasta bake reminds me of Sunday family dinners at my grandmother's house where creamy pasta dishes were always the centerpiece. The way the garlic infuses the entire dish brings back memories of her kitchen filled with the aroma of slowly simmered sauces and freshly grated cheese that she would always let me help with.

Make It Your Own

This pasta bake welcomes customization based on what you have available or your family preferences. Try swapping the chicken for Italian sausage or add vegetables like sautéed mushrooms spinach or roasted red peppers for additional flavor and nutrition. For a spicier version add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. The foundation remains the same but you can create countless variations.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight making this dish excellent for meal prep. When reheating individual portions use the microwave with a damp paper towel over the top to prevent drying out. For larger portions cover with foil and reheat in a 180°C oven until warmed through about 15 to 20 minutes. Add a splash of milk or cream if it seems dry before reheating.

Weekend Entertaining Hero

This pasta bake shines as an entertaining dish because it can be prepared ahead of time and popped into the oven just as guests arrive. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette and some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal that feels special without keeping you in the kitchen. The impressive presentation belies how simple it is to prepare making it perfect for both casual family dinners and more formal gatherings alike.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different pasta shape for this dish?

Yes! While rotini works great for holding the sauce, you can substitute penne, fusilli, or farfalle with similar results. Just be sure to cook your chosen pasta to al dente, as it will continue cooking slightly during baking.

→ How can I make this dish ahead of time?

Prepare the entire dish up to the point of baking, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, add 5-10 minutes to the baking time since you're starting with a cold dish. For best results, add the top layer of cheese just before baking.

→ What can I use instead of store-bought Alfredo sauce?

For homemade Alfredo, melt 115g butter, add 240ml heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes. Whisk in 200g grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg until smooth. This makes approximately one jar's worth of sauce.

→ What's the best way to prepare chicken for this dish?

For convenience, use rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken. Alternatively, sauté 3-4 chicken breasts seasoned with salt, pepper and garlic powder until cooked through (about 5-7 minutes per side), then dice or shred. You can also poach chicken breasts in broth for a tender result.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, add a splash of milk or cream, cover with foil, and heat in a 175°C oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Individual portions can be microwaved with a sprinkle of water to maintain moisture.

→ What side dishes pair well with this pasta bake?

This rich dish pairs perfectly with light sides like a simple green salad with vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread. For a complete meal, add a side of sautéed spinach or a tomato-cucumber salad to balance the creamy flavors.