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: 8 ounces of pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 2 cups heavy cream; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Meals

I love making this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake on busy weeknights because it’s the perfect comfort food. With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic cream sauce, this dish comes together effortlessly. It's one of those meals that I can prepare ahead of time and just pop in the oven when I need it. The combination of flavors is incredibly satisfying, and it always gets rave reviews from my family. Trust me; this is a recipe you'll want to keep in your weekly rotation!

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:53:36.655Z

When I first tried making a pasta bake, I was determined to get that creamy garlic flavor just right. After some experimenting, I discovered that using a combination of cream cheese and heavy cream creates a luxurious sauce that perfectly coats the pasta and chicken. The garlic infuses the dish with an aromatic punch, making it utterly irresistible!

I also love that you can customize this recipe to your liking. Adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms gives it extra nutrition and flavor. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers, making it as practical as it is delicious.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich creamy garlic flavor that comforts the soul
Convenient one-dish meal that’s easy to prepare
Customizable with your favorite veggies and protein

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of heavy cream and cream cheese in this recipe creates a luxurious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. The cream cheese not only thickens the sauce but also adds a tangy richness that contrasts nicely with the savory garlic. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and Greek yogurt for the cream cheese, though this may alter the final texture slightly.

Using freshly minced garlic is crucial for achieving that robust flavor in the sauce. Pre-minced garlic often lacks the potency and fresh notes that elevate the dish. Plus, if you find yourself without fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a decent substitute—just use about a teaspoon for each clove of garlic and adjust to taste.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When sautéing the chicken, be sure not to overcrowd the skillet. If you add too much chicken at once, they may steam rather than sear. This can result in uneven cooking and a more rubbery texture. Cook in batches if necessary, ensuring each piece gets even exposure to the heat for that desirable golden-brown color.

Pay attention to the pasta cooking time; overcooking it can lead to a mushy bake. Cooking it al dente is essential because the pasta will continue cooking in the oven when combined with the sauce. A minute or two less than the package’s recommended time is usually perfect for achieving that al dente texture.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

8 ounces of pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
2 cups heavy cream
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Mix and match ingredients to tailor this dish to your liking!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté 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 and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Then add the heavy cream, cream cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and well incorporated.

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, garlic cream sauce, and half of the parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Bake the Dish

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

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. You can also substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp or sausage for variety!

Make-Ahead and Storage Options

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake is an ideal dish to make ahead of time. You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just remember to remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

If you want to freeze it, assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. You may need to add an extra five to ten minutes of baking time if it’s still a bit cold.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider a mixed greens salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the dish's richness. You can also serve it with sautéed green vegetables like asparagus or spinach for added color and nutrition.

For a bit of spice, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce or serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. If you want to make it more substantial, consider sprinkling crispy cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms on top before baking for added flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

→ What kind of pasta works best?

Penne or fusilli are great choices since they hold onto the sauce well, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

→ Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to enjoy the dish without gluten.