Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Bake

Name: Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta; 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making this Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Bake on busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful herbs, and gooey cheese makes for a comforting dish that everyone in my family enjoys. What's great is that it all comes together in just about an hour, and the leftovers are amazing too! The key is to season your chicken well before baking for that extra punch of flavor. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your home too.

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:38:37.292Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed by how well the garlic and herbs complemented the chicken. The aroma filling my kitchen was simply irresistible! After trying different combinations, I found that using a mix of fresh parsley and thyme made all the difference, elevating the overall flavor. I also discovered that broiling the cheese on top for a few minutes gives it that perfect golden crust.

This dish not only tastes delicious but also looks stunning when served. The creamy sauce binds everything beautifully together, and it’s also a great dish to prepare when hosting friends. Everyone asks for seconds, and I love being able to share something so delightful that didn’t take all day to prepare.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A symphony of flavors with every bite
Easy to prepare and perfect for busy nights
Comforting and filling, ideal for the whole family

The Secret to Flavorful Chicken

The chicken in this Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Bake is the star of the show, and seasoning is key to enhancing its flavor. I recommend using a generous amount of salt and pepper not just for taste but to draw out the chicken's natural juices as it cooks. For a more pronounced flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. This extra step makes a significant difference, resulting in juicy and flavorful pieces that integrate beautifully with the pasta and sauce.

Cooking the chicken until it reaches a golden brown color is crucial. This Maillard reaction adds a depth of flavor that boiling won't provide. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution and ensure the chicken pieces aren't overcrowded. Crowding will cause steaming rather than browning, so cook in batches if needed. Keep an eye on the heat and adjust it as necessary; if the chicken starts to burn, lower the heat slightly.

Perfect Pasta for Baking

Choosing the right pasta is essential for a pasta bake. I recommend penne or rigatoni, as their tubular shapes are perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce. Make sure to cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This avoids mushiness and ensures a pleasant bite in the finished dish. Remember to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining, as it can be a useful addition if the sauce needs thinning later on.

When mixing the pasta with the chicken and sauce, be sure to combine everything thoroughly. This ensures every bite is coated with the creamy goodness and flavored evenly. A rubber spatula works great for folding the ingredients together without breaking the pasta. If you find the mixture too thick before baking, adding a splash of reserved pasta water can help create a silkier texture.

Making Ahead and Storage Tips

This Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Bake is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare it up to the baking stage and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it's going into the oven cold. You can also freeze the unbaked pasta bake; just be sure to use a freezer-safe dish and cover it well to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

To reheat the baked pasta leftovers, cover the dish with foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of reheating. I like to sprinkle a bit more cheese on top just before putting it back in the oven for that extra cheesy finish! You can also microwave individual portions if you’re short on time.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

8 ounces penne pasta
1 pound chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

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

Add the Aromatics

Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Mix the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add half of the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and remaining Parmesan. Transfer to a greased baking dish.

Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For a little extra flavor, consider adding some sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the mix. It gives a nice touch and boosts the nutrients in your meal.

Herb Variations

If you're looking to switch up the flavors in your Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Bake, consider experimenting with different herbs. Fresh basil or cilantro can provide a vibrant twist, while rosemary adds an earthy note. You could also use a mixture of dried herbs if fresh ones are unavailable—just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so reduce the amount to a third of what you would use for fresh. Personally, I enjoy a blend of oregano and thyme for that classic Italian flavor.

Consider adding vegetables to the bake for added nutrition and color. Spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes can be mixed in during the last moments of cooking the chicken, ensuring they retain some texture while integrating well with the pasta and sauce. If your family enjoys a little heat, adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish and make it even more memorable.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad for a balanced meal. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can offset the richness of the pasta bake. You can also serve it with garlic bread or a crunchy baguette for some additional texture. For a heartier option, roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers can complement the dish well, providing an additional layer of flavor.

For special occasions, consider garnishing the pasta bake with toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving. This not only adds a delightful visual touch but also a refreshing flavor contrast to the rich and creamy pasta. A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top can enhance the presentation and impart a sweet-tart note that balances the cheese beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works well and adds more fiber to the dish.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything up to the baking step a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you're ready to eat.

→ Can leftovers be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this pasta bake?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish.