Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
- The Secret to a Creamy and Flavorful Sauce
- Best Pasta Choices for the Perfect Texture
- How to Make This Recipe Even More Nutritious
- Pairing Ideas for a Complete Meal
- Storage and Reheating Tips
- Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it an easy recipe for dinner that everyone will love. You’ll learn how to make a rich, garlicky sauce, the best pasta choices, and tips for adding a nutritious twist.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
If you’re looking for easy recipes for dinner that are both delicious and satisfying, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a must-try! It’s rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors that will have your family coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The Secret to a Creamy and Flavorful Sauce
The magic of this dish lies in the velvety garlic Parmesan sauce. Made with heavy cream, chicken broth, and a blend of cheeses, it coats the pasta perfectly. For an extra boost of flavor, consider using freshly grated Parmesan—it melts beautifully and enhances the richness of the dish.
Best Pasta Choices for the Perfect Texture
Choosing the right pasta is essential for a balanced dish. Penne and rotini are great options as their ridges hold onto the creamy sauce well. If you prefer a lighter alternative, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta work just as well, making this an easy recipe for dinner adaptable to dietary needs.
How to Make This Recipe Even More Nutritious
Looking to add more nutrients to your meal? You can toss in fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even steamed broccoli before baking. These additions not only enhance the dish but also bring extra texture and vibrant color.
Pairing Ideas for a Complete Meal
To make this pasta bake a well-rounded meal, serve it with a crisp side salad and some garlic bread. A glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade also pairs beautifully with the creamy flavors of the dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
For more easy recipes for dinner, visit Lila Cooks and explore a variety of delicious homemade meals!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake – Easy Recipes for Dinner
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or oil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Mix in shredded chicken and half of the Parmesan cheese. Let simmer for 2 minutes.
- Toss cooked pasta with the creamy garlic sauce, ensuring even coating.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and remaining Parmesan on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
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