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Realistic image of a garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake featuring tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a crispy, golden topping garnished with fresh herbs.

garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake

C. Sophie
Savor our garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake: a rich, creamy dish with tender chicken and al dente pasta that delights every palate.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6 people
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Chicken:

  • 2 large skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces

Pasta:

  • 12 oz penne pasta or your preferred pasta

Cheese:

  • 1 ½ cups grated parmesan cheese divided: use some in the sauce and reserve some for topping
  • Dairy & Liquid:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup reserved pasta water optional, for adjusting sauce consistency
  • Aromatics & Seasonings:
  • 4-6 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped (optional)
  • 1-2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Fats:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter

Garnish & Extras:

  • Fresh basil or parsley chopped
  • Optional: steamed broccoli or spinach red pepper flakes, bread crumbs for a crispy topping

Instructions
 

Preheat & Prepare Pasta:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

Season and Cook Chicken:

  • Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and sauté until lightly browned and nearly cooked through (approximately 5-7 minutes).

Sauté Aromatics:

  • If using, add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft.
  • Add the minced garlic and continue cooking until fragrant, taking care not to overcook and burn the garlic.

Build the Sauce:

  • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet.
  • Gradually stir in 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese until it melts and forms a thick, creamy sauce.
  • Adjust the sauce’s consistency by adding reserved pasta water as needed.

Combine Pasta and Chicken:

  • Add the cooked pasta (and any optional vegetables) to the skillet.
  • Toss well to ensure the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy garlic parmesan sauce.

Bake the Dish:

  • Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese (and bread crumbs, if desired) evenly over the top.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Garnish & Serve:

  • Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes.
  • Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18 g (Saturated Fat: 8 g)
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g (Fiber: 3 g, Sugars: 2 g)
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
  • Sodium: 800 mg
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