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 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Meals

I absolutely adore this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake! It's the perfect comfort food for weeknight dinners or a cozy gathering with friends. I love how the creamy garlic sauce envelops the tender chicken and pasta, making every bite an indulgent experience. What I find particularly rewarding is the ability to prep everything in one dish, which means less time spent on the cleanup. Trust me, once you whip up this dish, it will quickly become a family favorite!

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:48:47.738Z

Making this pasta bake is always a joyous experience for me. The first time I tried it, I couldn't believe how well the garlic and cream worked together to create such a rich flavor profile. I remember the savory aroma wafting through my kitchen, making it impossible to resist sampling as I cooked!

One of the tips I learned is to slightly undercook the pasta before mixing it with the sauce, allowing it to absorb the flavors while baking. The result is a perfectly cooked pasta that retains its texture and absorbs all the delicious creaminess from the sauce!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that clings to every noodle
Tender chicken pieces infused with garlic flavor
Easy one-dish preparation for a hassle-free meal

The Importance of Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of the Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake, providing richness and depth to the dish. Heavy cream is essential here, as it contributes to the sauce's luscious texture. When combined with chicken broth, the cream forms a base that not only adds creaminess but also enhances the savory flavors from the shredded chicken and garlic. This balance ensures that every bite is filled with flavor, making it irresistible.

To elevate the flavor even further, using freshly minced garlic is highly recommended. The natural oils in fresh garlic provide a robust aroma and taste, deepening the dish's overall essence. If you find yourself without fresh garlic, feel free to substitute with garlic powder, but start with half the amount and adjust to your preference.

Baking Tips for Perfect Cheese Melt

Achieving a bubbly and golden cheese topping is crucial to the success of this bake. When you sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, be sure to use a generous layer. The gooey texture of mozzarella melts beautifully and creates that comforting, stretchy quality we're all looking for. To ensure even melting, it’s best to let the baking dish sit out for about 10 minutes before baking, allowing the cheese and pasta mixture to come to room temperature.

Monitor the dish closely while baking. Depending on your oven, baking times can vary slightly. Look for the cheese to become bubbly and develop a light golden color, which typically takes around 25-30 minutes. If the cheese is browning too quickly, you can cover the dish lightly with foil to prevent burning while the rest cooks through.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

If you find yourself with leftovers, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain the creamy texture and prevents the cheese from becoming rubbery, compared to using a microwave which may make it too dry.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta bake before baking. Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator. Bake as directed from the original recipe, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats all the way through.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful pasta bake:

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure everything is ready before you start putting the dish together!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy pasta bake:

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.

Mix the Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken to the sauce mixture. Stir until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated with the creamy mixture.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake the Dish

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious creamy garlic chicken pasta bake!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the mix before baking. They add great texture and nutrition!

Ingredient Modifications

This recipe is quite adaptable to meet various dietary needs. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, such as coconut cream. This still gives a creamy texture but with fewer calories and a unique flavor profile for those who enjoy coconut.

For a gluten-free version, you can swap the penne pasta for gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa. Just ensure to follow the cooking instructions specific to the gluten-free pasta, as cooking times and methods may vary.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake, consider adding a side salad or steamed vegetables. The freshness of a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta dish beautifully. I often include cherry tomatoes and cucumber for a refreshing contrast.

Another great option is to serve this dish with crusty garlic bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce, enriching your meal experience even more. Feel free to add some Italian herbs to your garlic butter for an extra flavor boost on the bread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken saves time and enhances the dish's overall convenience.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the entire dish in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you're ready to eat.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute, but keep in mind that it may alter the final creaminess of the dish.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven.