Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g penne pasta; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup heavy cream; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake! It’s the perfect dish for a cozy evening, combining tender chicken with a creamy garlic sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. The flavors meld together as it bakes, and the aroma that fills my kitchen is simply irresistible. I always make enough for leftovers, so I can enjoy it again the next day. Whether it's a family gathering or just a weeknight dinner, this dish wins everyone over with its rich taste and comforting texture. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:53:36.456Z

When I first made this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The blend of garlic, cream, and chicken creates an irresistible sauce that clings to the pasta, making each bite a delight. I remember using leftover rotisserie chicken for the protein, which saved me time and added depth to the flavors.

One tip I discovered is to sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before baking. It forms a golden, bubbly crust that adds not just texture but also an extra layer of flavor. This dish has become a staple in my home, and it’s always a hit with guests!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic flavor
Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup
Perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests

Perfectly Cooked Pasta

Cooking the penne pasta to the right doneness is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your bake. Aim for al dente, which means the pasta is firm to the bite. This ensures that it doesn’t become mushy during baking. To achieve this, I recommend checking the pasta a minute or two before the package instructions suggest. Once drained, toss the pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking and promote even coating with the sauce later.

If you want to add extra flavor to the pasta, consider cooking it in broth instead of water. A chicken or vegetable broth will impart a savory undertone that complements the creamy garlic sauce. This small adjustment can elevate the overall taste of the dish, ensuring each bite of pasta is as flavorful as the sauce.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

The garlic sauce is where this dish truly shines, infusing the pasta and chicken with aromatic flavors. When sautéing the minced garlic, watch closely as it can go from perfectly fragrant to burnt in a matter of seconds. Aim for a light golden color before adding the heavy cream. This step ensures the garlic’s flavor is bold without being bitter, laying a flavorful foundation for the sauce.

Once you add the heavy cream, bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Avoid boiling the cream, which can cause it to separate and lose its rich texture. Stirring continuously will help it emulsify smoothly with the garlic, creating a luscious sauce that clings nicely to the pasta.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

300g penne pasta
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Pasta

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

Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

Mix the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses into the skillet. Stir until well combined and coated with the sauce.

Bake

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheeses. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the mixture before baking. You can also use different types of cheese, like cheddar or gouda, for a unique twist.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, you can store the Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, try using an oven set to 180°C (350°F) to maintain the texture of the cheese and pasta. Cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out and heat for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the dish. Freeze it before baking for optimal freshness. To do this, assemble everything in a baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize the add-ins based on your preferences! Vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can be folded in with the pasta for an extra burst of color and nutrition. For a kick, you might also consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce to enhance the flavor profile with a bit of heat.

To serve, pair the pasta bake with a simple side salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the dish beautifully, providing a well-rounded meal. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle additional fresh parsley or even a squeeze of lemon juice on top before serving for added brightness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use uncooked chicken?

Yes, just make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before mixing it with the pasta.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the pasta bake?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking.