Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect comfort meal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or anytime you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and fully satisfying. This recipe combines tender pieces of seasoned chicken, pasta cooked to perfection, and a rich garlic cream sauce, all baked under a golden layer of bubbling cheese. The flavors are hearty yet balanced, with garlic standing out beautifully without being overpowering. It’s a dish that always feels cozy, comforting, and deeply satisfying—like a warm hug on a plate.

Why I Love This Recipe

What makes this recipe so special is how effortlessly it blends comfort and flavor. Every bite offers creamy sauce coating tender pasta, seasoned chicken, and melted cheese. It reheats beautifully, feeds a crowd, and can be adapted endlessly depending on what you have in your fridge or pantry. I love how easy it is to prepare yet how rich and satisfying it feels—like restaurant comfort food made at home. Plus, the leftovers are even better, making it a win for meal-prep or busy schedules.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it delivers everything you want in a pasta meal—creamy texture, bold garlic flavor, melted cheese, and protein all in one pan. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a family favorite because it feels indulgent without requiring complicated steps. The sauce is velvety, the chicken flavorful, and the baked finish adds irresistible texture. Whether you’re impressing guests or feeding picky eaters, this dish checks every box for comfort, taste, versatility, and practicality.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Approx. Calories: 550-650 per serving

Cuisine

Italian-American inspired comfort food

Course

Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pasta

• 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika

For the Sauce

• 3 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Simple Cooking Directions

Cook pasta. Season and cook chicken. Make garlic cream sauce. Combine pasta, chicken, and sauce. Top with cheese and bake until golden and bubbling.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add seasoned chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   Melt butter in a saucepan. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in flour to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk and cream. Add Parmesan, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until creamy and thick.
4. Combine:
   Add pasta and chicken into a large bowl and pour sauce over. Mix evenly.
5. Bake:
   Transfer mixture to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden and bubbling.

How to Serve

Serve hot straight from the oven with garlic bread, steamed vegetables, a fresh side salad, or roasted broccoli. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for added flavor and presentation.

Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated cheese—pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before baking.

Variations

• Add spinach or broccoli for extra vegetables.
• Swap chicken for shrimp or sausage.
• Make it spicy by adding red chili flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.

Freezing and Storage

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Oven-safe baking dish
• Large pot
• Skillet
• Sauce pan

FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely—just skip the chicken cooking step.

Can I freeze before baking?
Yes, freeze assembled but unbaked pasta for later use.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting recipe that brings together simple ingredients in a delicious and satisfying way. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or sharing with family and friends, this dish is guaranteed to become a repeat favorite. It’s cozy, filling, versatile, and absolutely irresistible.