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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy dinner made with tender chicken, pasta, garlic parmesan sauce, and a melted mozzarella topping. It is comforting, family-friendly, and easy to make with cooked or rotisserie chicken.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Calories: 540
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces penne rotini, ziti, or short pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded or chopped chicken
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup milk or chicken broth
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  4. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring often.
  5. Stir in heavy cream and milk or chicken broth. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
  6. Reduce heat to low and stir in parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  7. Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  9. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top.
  10. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling.
  11. Broil for 1–2 minutes if you want a more golden top.
  12. Rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Notes

  • Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
  • Cook pasta just to al dente so it does not become mushy after baking.
  • Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
  • Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
  • Add broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for extra vegetables.