If you’re a fan of creamy, cheesy pasta dishes, then this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is about to become your new favorite comfort meal! With tender pieces of chicken, a luscious garlic-parmesan cream sauce, and perfectly baked layers of pasta and melted cheese, this dish captures everything we love about cozy, homemade food — all in one pan. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s fully customizable — you can make it spicy, veggie-packed, or extra cheesy depending on your mood.
Why You’ll Love It
This pasta bake combines everything that makes comfort food irresistible — creamy textures, golden cheese crust, and the rich aroma of garlic butter. The sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, the chicken stays juicy, and every bite bursts with savory flavor. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to throw together and requires only basic ingredients you probably already have at home.
Ingredients
🐔 For the Chicken & Pasta:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips or cubes
- 8 oz (225 g) uncooked pasta (penne, ziti, or fusilli work great)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt & pepper to taste
🧀 For the Sauce:
- 2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
🍅 Optional Toppings:
- Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- Sliced cherry tomatoes or baby spinach
Step-by-Step Directions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente (slightly firm). Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, oregano, and (if desired) red pepper flakes. Cook for about 5–7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (do not burn!).
Add cream, chicken broth, and the cornstarch-water mixture. Simmer while whisking until slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
Stir in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese and parsley until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
4️⃣ Assemble the Bake:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce in the dish. Gently toss to coat evenly.
Top with remaining Parmesan and any optional cheeses for a golden crust.
5️⃣ Bake to Perfection:
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:
Let rest a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success
- Cook pasta just al dente to avoid sogginess during baking.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melt.
- Add veggies like broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach for a balanced meal.
- Want it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Make-ahead option: Assemble the dish ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready (add 10 minutes to bake time).