Description
This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta bake is a comforting and flavorful one-dish meal combining tender chicken breasts, al dente pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce made with garlic, Parmesan, mozzarella, and herbs. Baked to bubbly perfection, it’s an easy recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Topping and Garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the uncooked pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the chicken and garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Add garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and let rest, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the creamy sauce: To the same skillet, sprinkle 1 tablespoon flour over the garlic remnants and stir well to coat. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping the bottom to loosen any browned bits. Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine and bake: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and creamy sauce. Mix well and transfer to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh, colorful garnish before serving.
Notes
- Be sure not to overcook the pasta during boiling as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though it may result in a less creamy sauce.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Let the dish rest after baking to allow the sauce to thicken and set for easier serving.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting quality.
