creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake is an easy, comforting dinner perfect for busy nights and family meals.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 16 oz penne pasta or rotini, gluten-free if needed
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1.5 cups heavy cream or milk for lighter sauce
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese + extra for topping
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup broccoli florets spinach, or mushrooms
Instructions
- Prep & Cook Pasta:
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup pasta water.
- Season & Cook Chicken:
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through (6-8 mins). Set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Sauté garlic for 1 minute.
- Stir in heavy cream and parmesan. Simmer until thickened (3-4 mins). Add pasta water as needed to adjust consistency.
- Combine & Bake:
- Mix cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce in a greased 9x13” baking dish. Top with extra parmesan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 mins until bubbly and golden.
- Serve:
- Let rest 5 mins. Garnish with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Calories | Fat | Protein | Carbs | Fiber | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 550 kcal | 25g | 35g | 45g | 3g | 800mg |