Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you're looking for a dish that's both comforting and flavorful, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake will not disappoint. The creamy Alfredo sauce and garlic parmesan blend together to create a rich, velvety texture that coats every piece of pasta. The chicken adds a savory element, and the melted cheese on top gives it that irresistible golden crust. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Plus, it’s versatile enough to add your favorite veggies or spices to customize it to your liking. A true weeknight winner!

Ingredients

• 1 pound rotini pasta, cooked and drained (save 1 cup of cooking water for casserole)

• 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded

• 2 (15 ounce) jars Alfredo sauce

• 1 cup garlic parmesan sauce

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or butter.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic parmesan sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well. Add about ½ cup pasta water if needed for extra sauciness.

3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.

4. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.

5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Optional: For a golden top, broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

7. Let cool for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.

• Swap the pasta: If you prefer a different type of pasta, penne, ziti, or even spaghetti works well in this dish.

• Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the bake a little kick.

• Use different proteins: Feel free to substitute the chicken with turkey, sausage, or even ground beef for a different twist.

• Cheese variation: Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar or gouda for a unique taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven. To microwave, heat in 30-second intervals until warm. To reheat in the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pasta bake a day in advance. Just assemble the dish and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake it. You may need to adjust the baking time if the dish is cold from the fridge.

2. Can I freeze this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?

Absolutely. To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

3. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works wonderfully in this dish. Just shred or dice it before adding it to the pasta mixture.

4. How can I make this recipe lower in calories?

To reduce the calories, you can use a lighter Alfredo sauce, lower-fat mozzarella, and skip the optional cheese topping. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.

5. Can I make this dish without the garlic parmesan sauce?

If you prefer not to use garlic parmesan sauce, you can substitute it with additional Alfredo sauce or a homemade garlic butter sauce to maintain the creamy texture.

6. How can I add more flavor to this dish?

Try adding some fresh garlic, Italian seasoning, or a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can also enhance the taste.

7. What other cheeses can I use in this recipe?

In addition to mozzarella and Parmesan, you can add cheeses like provolone, gouda, or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the cheeses melt well.

8. Can I use uncooked chicken in this recipe?

It's best to use cooked chicken for this recipe, as uncooked chicken will need to be baked separately. You can cook the chicken beforehand and shred or dice it for the casserole.

9. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, to make it spicy, you can add red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for extra heat.

10. Can I add vegetables to this pasta bake?

Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli can give the dish more flavor and texture. Just sauté or steam them before adding to the pasta mixture.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a perfect choice for a hearty, comforting meal. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese, it's sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Whether you're feeding a crowd or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish delivers both flavor and satisfaction in every bite. Enjoy!