Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting, creamy casserole made with tender chicken, garlic, pasta, and a rich parmesan cheese sauce. This easy-to-make dish is baked to perfection and ideal for busy weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, creamy chicken casserole, pasta bake, easy dinner recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 12 oz penne or any pasta of choice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the butter to the skillet, let it melt, and then whisk in the flour. Cook the roux for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and panko breadcrumbs if using.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream for milk if you prefer a richer sauce.
- Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- For a crunchy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg