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: 300g pasta (penne or fusilli); 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake. It’s a comforting and delicious dish that brings the whole family together at the dinner table. The combination of tender chicken, rich and creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta is a match made in heaven. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up and can be ready in no time. Whether it’s a Sunday family meal or a weekday dinner, this pasta bake is always a hit. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:48:47.884Z

Every time I make this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake, I’m reminded of cozy family nights. It’s one of those dishes that fills the kitchen with a delightful aroma, and I just know everyone is going to love it. The secret is in the sauce, which combines creamy goodness with garlic and a hint of herbs, elevating the overall flavor.

I learned that letting the pasta soak up some of the sauce while baking enhances the taste even more. For a crispy top, I like to add a sprinkle of cheese and breadcrumbs towards the end of baking. It adds a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy pasta. Trust me, you’ll want to make this dish again and again!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce with a hint of garlic
Easy to prepare and bake, perfect for busy weeknights
A comforting dish that brings the family together

The Role of Ingredients

The choice of pasta is crucial for the Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake. I recommend using penne or fusilli, as their shapes effectively capture the creamy sauce. Penne's ridges allow the sauce to cling beautifully, while fusilli's twists create pockets of flavor. Ensure you cook the pasta just until al dente; this will help it hold its shape during baking and prevent it from becoming mushy.

When selecting chicken, cooked rotisserie chicken works wonderfully due to its flavor and convenience, but you can also poach or bake chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Shredding the chicken allows it to blend seamlessly into the sauce, ensuring every bite is filled with that delicious garlic flavor.

Perfecting the Sauce

For the sauce, using heavy cream is essential to achieve the rich, luxurious texture that defines this dish. If you're looking to lighten it up, you can substitute half-and-half, but the sauce may not be as thick or indulgent. When combining garlic and cream, keep the heat at medium to prevent the cream from boiling, which can lead to curdling. Stir gently until the sauce starts to thicken and becomes glossy, usually within 5-7 minutes.

Incorporating dried oregano not only adds flavor but also complements the garlic and chicken beautifully. If you prefer a fresh twist, consider using fresh herbs like basil or thyme. Just remember, fresh herbs should be added toward the end of cooking to preserve their vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful pasta bake.

Ingredients

300g pasta (penne or fusilli)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Make sure all ingredients are ready before you start!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy pasta bake.

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Combine Chicken and Pasta

Add the shredded chicken and cooked pasta to the sauce. Mix well until everything is fully coated in the creamy sauce.

Bake the Dish

Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy garlic chicken pasta bake with a fresh side salad!

Enjoy your delicious pasta bake!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can include vegetables like spinach or mushrooms in the bake. Also, feel free to experiment with different cheese on top for a unique twist.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, this pasta bake stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth before reheating can help restore moisture and prevent dryness.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish before baking. Assemble the pasta bake in the greased dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as per the original instructions, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it is hot throughout.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables, which adds a nice crunch and balances the creaminess of the dish. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can enhance the overall flavor profile, making the meal feel lighter and more balanced.

For a bit of extra flair, consider sprinkling fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also bring a fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the sauce, elevating the dish to a whole new level.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe.

→ Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Penne or fusilli are great choices as they hold onto the sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite type!