Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Traditional Comforts

I absolutely love making this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake because it's comfort food at its finest. The rich and creamy sauce, combined with tender pieces of chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, always makes my family come back for more. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken! Baking it brings all the flavors together while creating a bubbly, golden top that’s impossible to resist. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a weeknight favorite in your household.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:57:37.016Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of a pasta bake, I knew I had to give it a go with my favorite ingredients. The combination of garlic, creamy sauce, and chicken was a no-brainer, and the first time I made it, my kitchen filled with an irresistible aroma. The key is to sauté the garlic just until fragrant and to mix in some fresh herbs for that extra pop of flavor!

As I perfected the recipe, I discovered that using a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses creates a beautifully creamy texture while ensuring that golden crust we all love. It’s the perfect dish to impress guests or simply to enjoy on a cozy night in!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy garlic sauce that envelops every bite.
Tender chicken pieces perfectly melded with pasta.
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.

      

The Importance of Garlic

Garlic is a crucial ingredient in this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake, as it infuses the dish with its warm, aromatic essence. When sautéed until fragrant, garlic releases essential oils that elevate the pasta bake's overall flavor profile. Ensure you sauté the garlic over medium heat to avoid burning it, which can lead to a bitter taste. A subtle browning is perfect, achieving that golden, glossy appearance that promises deliciousness in every bite.

If you're looking to amplify the garlic flavor, consider adding roasted garlic instead of fresh. Roasting mellows its sharpness and adds a sweet, nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce. You can easily roast garlic by wrapping a whole bulb in aluminum foil, drizzling it with olive oil, and baking it at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes.

Making It Your Own

This pasta bake is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs. For a lower-calorie option, substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a creamy plant-based alternative. This adjustment maintains a similar texture while significantly reducing the fat content, making it a healthier choice without compromising on the creamy goodness.

You can also mix different cheeses into the dish for a unique flavor. Substituting Gruyère for part of the mozzarella adds a nutty depth, while a sprinkle of feta before baking brings a tangy twist. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the nutritional value and introduce more colors and textures into your meal.

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant but not browned, about 2 minutes. Add the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, Italian seasoning, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bake the Dish

Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the mixture before baking. This can enhance both the taste and nutritional content of your dish.

Storage Tips

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, cover the dish with foil to retain moisture and reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. This method helps maintain the creamy texture and prevents it from drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the unbaked dish. Assemble it as directed and cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to two months. When you're ready to bake it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual, possibly extending the baking time by about 10 minutes to ensure it's heated through.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, you can pair this pasta bake with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing bite that complements the creamy elements beautifully. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread for an indulgent treat.

For an elegant touch, drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction over the top just before serving. This adds a splash of tanginess that contrasts nicely with the creamy flavors and enhances the visual appeal. Just a small drizzle is enough to elevate the dish to a new level.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape like fusilli or rigatoni.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the prepared dish before baking. Just thaw and bake as per the instructions when ready to enjoy.

→ Can I use a different protein?

Yes! You can easily swap the chicken for cooked turkey, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using whole wheat pasta, reducing the amount of cream, or adding more vegetables to boost its nutritional profile.