Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta bake is perfect for cozy nights when you want comfort food that comes together with minimal fuss. It balances rich, cheesy sauce with tender chicken and pasta baked to golden perfection, making it a satisfying meal anyone can enjoy.

I pulled this recipe together on a busy evening when I needed something hearty yet quick. It became an instant favorite that’s now a family staple on cold evenings.

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast: shredded or cubed provides protein and soaks up sauce warmth. Use freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken for ease and flavor
• Penne or rotini pasta: holds sauce well. Choose good quality dried pasta that cooks evenly and stays firm to the bite
• Heavy cream: creates a luscious, velvety sauce. Whole fat options give the best richness and smooth texture
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: adds sharp nutty flavor. Always grate fresh for meltability and depth rather than pre-grated bags
• Garlic minced: gives the essential aromatic foundation. Fresh cloves will always offer a brighter, more vibrant taste than jarred
• Butter: melts the garlic and enriches the base. Real butter is crucial here for that creamy mouthfeel
• Salt and pepper: balance flavors. Season cautiously and adjust after baking for perfect taste

Instructions

Build The Pasta Base:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Set a large pot of salted water on boil and add the pasta. Cook until just al dente meaning tender but still firm to the bite. This prevents mushiness after baking. Drain the pasta and save a small cup of pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency later.

Create The Garlic Cream Sauce:

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter slowly. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant but not browned about one minute. This soft cooking draws out sweetness and avoids bitterness. Slowly stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the freshly grated Parmesan gradually stirring constantly until fully melted into a smooth sauce.

Combine Chicken Pasta And Sauce:

Add the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and then stir in the drained pasta. Toss everything well to evenly coat with the creamy cheese sauce. If the sauce looks too thick or clumpy, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until it loosens to a velvety consistency.

Bake To Golden Perfection:

Grease a baking dish lightly with butter or oil. Transfer the combined pasta and chicken mixture into the dish. Sprinkle extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top to create a delicious crust. Bake in the preheated oven uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on the edges. Let rest a few minutes before serving for the sauce to settle.

My favorite ingredient has to be the garlic in this bake. It really turns the whole dish from ordinary to something special with that toasty, aromatic punch. The first time I made this for my family, my kids surprised me by asking for seconds which is a rarity for picky eaters.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven adding a splash of milk to bring back creaminess if needed. This bake also freezes well; thaw overnight and bake covered at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes to revive flavor and texture.

Ingredient swaps

Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for more juiciness but cook fully before adding to the sauce. For a lighter option substitute half and half or whole milk for the heavy cream though the sauce will be less thick and creamy. Use Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheese if you want a sharper, saltier twist on the Parmesan.

Serving ideas

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance. A squeeze of lemon juice just before eating adds a bright contrast to the rich sauce.

This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta bake is a comforting classic that delivers rich flavors with minimal effort.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What pasta types work best for this dish?

Penne or rotini are ideal as their shapes hold the creamy sauce well, but rigatoni or fusilli can also be used.

→ How can I keep the chicken tender and moist?

Using cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed, helps maintain moisture. Incorporating it into the sauce before baking prevents drying out.

→ Can I adjust the garlic intensity?

Yes, you can add more or fewer garlic cloves according to taste. Sautéing garlic gently helps mellow sharpness and develop sweetness.

→ What is the purpose of reserved pasta water?

Reserved pasta water can be added to the sauce to adjust consistency, helping it coat the pasta evenly without becoming too thick.

→ How do I know when it's done baking?

It should be bubbly around the edges and golden brown on top, usually after 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, combining ingredients beforehand and baking just before serving retains freshness and flavor.