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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

A creamy, cheesy pasta bake with tender chicken, garlic-Parmesan sauce, and layers of melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken & Pasta
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips or cubes
  • 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne, ziti, or fusilli)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, 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

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente (slightly firm). Drain and set aside.
  2. 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.
Making the Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (do not burn!).
  2. Add cream, chicken broth, and the cornstarch-water mixture. Simmer while whisking until slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
  3. Stir in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese and parsley until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Assembly & Baking
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce in the dish. Gently toss to coat evenly.
  3. Top with remaining Parmesan and any optional cheeses for a golden crust.
  4. 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.
  5. Let rest a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

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).