Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Collection

I can’t resist a comforting pasta bake, and this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake is no exception. As someone who loves blending flavors, I find that the combination of creamy sauce and tender chicken creates the perfect harmony. With the pasta soaking in the garlicky goodness, every bite feels indulgent yet straightforward to make. Whether I'm hosting friends or just want a cozy night in, this dish always delivers satisfaction. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that makes leftovers even more delightful the next day!

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-02-24T04:49:36.742Z

I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma of garlic and herbs filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug, and I love how the creamy sauce clings to every piece of pasta. During testing, I discovered that a dash of lemon zest right before serving really elevates the dish, bringing freshness to the rich flavors.

What I love most about this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake is how versatile it is. You can easily swap out the chicken for shredded vegetables or even add some spinach for extra nutrition. By adjusting the baking time, I’ve found that you can achieve a crispy top layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture below. It’s the perfect dish for cozy gatherings or family dinners!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy flavor with a delightful garlic kick
Easy to customize for various dietary preferences
One-bowl meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

For this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake, the choice of ingredients significantly impacts the dish's overall flavor and texture. Opt for high-quality, fresh chicken breast, as it will contribute to a tender bite and enhance the dish's richness. The mozzarella cheese adds a gooey texture that melts beautifully during baking, while the Parmesan introduces a savory, nutty note that elevates the richness of the sauce. When selecting garlic, fresh cloves are preferable for a more robust flavor compared to pre-minced options, which can often taste flat.

The heavy cream and chicken broth create a luxuriously smooth sauce that clings to each piece of pasta. If you need a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream for a similar creamy texture without the extra fat. However, be cautious with temperature when introducing yogurt; stir it in at the end to avoid curdling.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking this pasta dish requires you to keep an eye on the cheese as it melts. The goal is to achieve a bubbly, golden layer on top that is both inviting and delicious. To gauge doneness, look for the cheese's edges to turn a light brown color, which usually happens within the recommended 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). If you find that the top isn't browning fast enough, you can switch your oven to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes, but be sure to watch closely to prevent burning.

When transferring the pasta mixture to the baking dish, I recommend using a large spoon or spatula, ensuring that you mix gently to avoid breaking the pasta. If you want to get creative, consider adding some vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes before baking for a nutritional boost and added color. These ingredients not only enhance the baking dish visually but also provide additional texture and flavor without complicating the overall recipe.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound chicken breast, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients measured out for easier preparation.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before getting started.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Garlic and Cream

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then add the Italian seasoning. Mix well and let simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine with Pasta

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cream mixture, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until everything is well combined.

Bake the Dish

Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot for a delicious meal.

Enjoy this flavorful pasta bake with a side salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

To make this dish even richer, add a splash of white wine to the cream mixture before simmering.

Storing and Reheating

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers of this delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake, storing them properly will maintain the dish's integrity. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest doing so in the oven to retain its oven-baked texture. Cover with foil to prevent the top from drying out, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

For longer storage, this dish freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers after it has completely cooled. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and follow the same reheating instructions as mentioned before for the best results.

Variations to Try

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing for several variations based on your preferences. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the garlic during the sautéing step. Alternatively, swapping out the chicken for cooked Italian sausage can lend a different depth of flavor. If you want to keep it vegetarian, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a medley of seasonal vegetables, which will also absorb the creamy sauce well.

Herbs can further change the profile of this dish. Experiment with adding fresh basil or thyme before baking for aromatic flavor. For a bit of zest, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top after baking. This contrast will balance out the rich creaminess of the sauce, making each bite refreshing and complex.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute other pasta types like fusilli or rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the baking stage and store it in the fridge for up to two days before baking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil.