Do Share Recipe

I have to admit, making this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe was an absolute delight. The creamy, cheesy aroma filled my kitchen instantly, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. Every bite of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and rich garlic parmesan sauce felt like comfort on a plate.

I love how simple ingredients can come together to create such a satisfying meal. This recipe quickly became one of my go-to weeknight dinners! You can also enjoy similar hearty comfort food like Shepherds Pie Tater Tot Casserole Recipe for cozy evenings.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy and flavorful pasta bake. I’ve included a few tips to make sure each ingredient works perfectly.

2 cups rotini pasta – Cook to al dente; pasta will continue cooking in the oven.
2 cups cooked chicken, diced – Rotisserie chicken works best for ease; freshly cooked chicken is also great.
1 cup Alfredo sauce – Choose a creamy, good-quality brand for best flavor.
1 cup garlic parmesan sauce – Adds that signature rich and garlicky flavor.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided – Freshly shredded melts better than pre-shredded.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided – Grate yourself for maximum flavor.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground is ideal.
Optional garnish: fresh parsley or basil – Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Note: Serves 4-6 generously. You can also try small twists for fun, like the Jalapeno Popper Bagels Recipe for a spicy snack alongside your meal.

Variations

This recipe is flexible, and I love experimenting with different options:

For a dairy-free version, substitute Alfredo sauce with a cashew cream and use dairy-free cheese.
To add extra veggies, toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
Swap rotini for penne, farfalle, or rigatoni; just check cooking times.
Skip the oven by preparing everything on the stovetop for a quick 25-minute meal.

Cooking Time

Here’s what to expect for prep and cooking:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large pot – For boiling pasta.
Casserole dish – For baking everything together.
Mixing bowl – To combine pasta, chicken, and sauces.
Spoon or spatula – To mix and spread the casserole evenly.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe?

Preheat and Prep

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing my casserole dish. This ensures the pasta bake doesn’t stick and makes cleanup easier.

Cook the Pasta

Next, I cook the rotini pasta to al dente in salted boiling water. I drain it carefully so it doesn’t overcook, which keeps the pasta firm after baking.

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, I combine the pasta, diced chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic parmesan sauce, half the mozzarella, and half the Parmesan. I season it with salt and pepper, stirring gently to coat everything evenly.

Assemble in Casserole Dish

I spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Then, I top it with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for a cheesy crust that melts beautifully in the oven.

Bake

Covering the dish with foil, I bake it for about 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly. For a golden, slightly crisp top, I remove the foil in the last 5 minutes.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

From my experience, these little tricks make a big difference:

I always grate cheese fresh; it melts smoother and has better flavor.
To prevent pasta from becoming mushy, I slightly undercook it during boiling.
Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil before serving brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise.
I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick of heat.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe?

Serving this pasta bake is fun and simple. I love scooping generous portions onto plates, garnishing with fresh herbs, and pairing it with garlic bread. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Presentation tip: drizzle a little extra sauce over the top and sprinkle Parmesan to make it irresistible.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutrition per serving:

Calories: Approximately 450-500 kcal
Protein: 25-28 g
Carbohydrates: 40-45 g
Fat: 20-22 g

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigerate

You can prepare this dish ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container or cover your casserole dish tightly. It stays fresh in the fridge for 2-3 days.

Freeze

Cool the pasta bake completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It keeps well for up to 3 months.

Reheat

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes. If the sauce seems thick or dry, add a splash of milk or cream for extra creaminess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

If you’re wondering why this dish is worth making, here’s why I love it:

Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknights when time is limited.
Flavorful: Garlic and Parmesan create a rich, creamy taste everyone enjoys.
Versatile: Easy to swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this cheesy, comforting meal.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepares well in advance for easy reheating or freezing.

Ben Carraoli