Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite satisfies like a rich, cheesy pasta bake. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect meal for busy weeknights or when you need a hearty dish to share with family and friends. With the creamy combination of Alfredo and garlic Parmesan sauces, tender chicken, and melted mozzarella, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken, making it both time-saving and delicious.

This recipe serves 6-8 people, making it ideal for a family dinner or gathering. With just 45 minutes of total cooking time, you’ll have a comforting and filling meal ready in no time, complete with a crispy, cheesy topping that everyone will love.

Ingredients to Prepare

This recipe makes 6-8 servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. With its creamy sauces, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness, this pasta bake is both comforting and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:
1 pound rotini pasta, cooked and drained (reserve 1 cup of cooking water)
3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
2 (15-ounce) jars Alfredo sauce
1 cup garlic Parmesan sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

How to Make

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is simple to put together, with only a few steps needed to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Follow this guide to make sure your pasta bake turns out perfectly every time.

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and set it aside.
2. Mix the Chicken and Sauces:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic Parmesan sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the chicken is well-coated with the sauce. For extra creaminess and to prevent the sauce from drying out, stir in the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time.
3. Add the Pasta:
   Once the chicken mixture is combined, add the cooked rotini pasta. Stir until the pasta is evenly mixed with the sauce and chicken, making sure everything is well-coated with the creamy mixture.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
   Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure it bakes evenly.
5. Add the Cheese Topping:
   Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta bake, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. This cheesy topping will melt beautifully and form a golden crust on top of the pasta.
6. Bake the Pasta Bake:
   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown. The edges should be crispy, and the center should be fully heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Helpful Tips:

• Use Fresh or Leftover Chicken: You can use leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even quickly sauté some chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. If you want to save even more time, store-bought rotisserie chicken works perfectly.
• Pasta Cooking Water: Don’t forget to reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water when draining your rotini. This starchy water helps loosen the sauce, ensuring the pasta stays creamy during baking.
• Cheese Variations: While mozzarella and Parmesan work beautifully here, you can experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar, provolone, or gouda for different flavor profiles.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the rotini pasta for a gluten-free pasta variety. Most grocery stores offer a wide range of gluten-free pasta options that work just as well in this recipe.
• Make-Ahead Meal: This pasta bake can be assembled ahead of time, stored in the refrigerator, and baked when you’re ready. It’s a great option for meal prep, as it stores well for up to 24 hours before baking.

Serving Suggestions:

• Side Dishes: Garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables pairs perfectly with this pasta bake, adding some crunch and balance to the meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is also a great side to balance the richness of the pasta.
• Toppings: Add some extra toppings for more flavor! Crumbled bacon, crispy fried onions, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can take this dish to the next level.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 500 kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 1000mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g

Storage and Leftovers

• Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This pasta bake holds up well and reheats beautifully.
• Reheating: To reheat, cover the pasta bake with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual servings for a few minutes until hot.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled but unbaked pasta bake for up to two months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. For best results, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before baking to refresh the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While rotini is recommended because it holds onto the sauce well, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or even farfalle (bow-tie) pasta. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t become mushy after baking.

Can I make this dish healthier?
If you want a lighter version of this recipe, you can substitute the Alfredo sauce with a lighter or low-fat version. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta and reduce the amount of cheese, though this may alter the final taste slightly.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta bake?
Absolutely! This dish can easily be customized with vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms. Simply sauté the vegetables before mixing them into the pasta to ensure they are cooked through.

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Any type of cooked chicken will work well. Whether it’s baked, grilled, or even store-bought rotisserie chicken, the key is to have it diced or shredded for easy mixing into the pasta. Chicken thighs provide a slightly richer flavor, but chicken breasts work just as well if you prefer a leaner option.

How can I prevent the pasta from drying out in the oven?
To keep the pasta bake creamy, make sure to add enough sauce and the reserved pasta water to keep the dish moist. Covering the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking can also help retain moisture. Be sure not to overbake the casserole, as this can dry out the pasta.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort dish, blending tender chicken, creamy sauces, and gooey melted cheese for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or hosting a gathering, this pasta bake will leave everyone coming back for seconds. With its versatility and ease, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Try pairing it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad, and don’t forget to experiment with different cheeses and vegetables for a unique spin. This is one recipe you’ll want to keep on hand for any occasion!

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