Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Heritage

I absolutely love making this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake, especially on busy weeknights when I want something comforting yet easy to whip up. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy garlic sauce creates a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover chicken you might have in the fridge! This bake is a family favorite, and we always find ourselves going back for seconds.

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-02-28T10:24:44.813Z

When I first made this pasta bake, I was blown away by how easily it all came together. The key to the creamy sauce is using a good quality cream cheese that melts beautifully, giving it that luxurious texture. I also love adding a hint of nutmeg, which elevates the flavor profile to a whole new level!

Each time I prepare this dish, I find myself experimenting with different cheeses or adding a touch of spinach for some extra nutrition. It’s versatile enough to adapt based on what I have in my pantry, but it never fails to deliver on flavor and comfort.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy garlic sauce that brings everything together perfectly
Easy to make and perfect for meal prepping
Great way to use up leftover chicken or vegetables

Understanding the Ingredients

The use of cream cheese and sour cream in this recipe is crucial for achieving that luxurious, creamy texture that makes this pasta bake so comforting. The cream cheese adds richness, while the sour cream provides a subtle tang that balances the flavors beautifully. If you find yourself without sour cream, Greek yogurt can be an excellent substitute; just ensure it's unsweetened for the best results.

Shredded cooked chicken is the star of the show, adding protein and heartiness to the dish. If you have rotisserie chicken leftover from another meal, it can save you time and enhance the flavor. Alternatively, if you want a vegetarian option, consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables, which will also soak up the creamy garlic sauce.

Don’t underestimate the role of spices like garlic powder and nutmeg. Garlic powder enhances the dish's overall garlic flavor without the need for additional chopping. A pinch of nutmeg may seem unusual, but it adds warmth and depth that complements the creamy components perfectly, so don’t skip it!

Perfecting the Bake

When mixing the pasta and sauce, be sure to do so thoroughly to ensure every piece of pasta is evenly coated. This striking balance in distribution is vital; otherwise, you might end up with clumps of uncoated noodles. I like to use a large spatula for folding, which helps preserve the shape of the pasta while ensuring even coverage.

After transferring the mixture to the baking dish, make sure to spread it out evenly. This will prevent uneven cooking and ensure each serving has a good combination of chicken, pasta, and sauce. As it bakes, keep an eye on the cheese; it should be golden and bubbling, which typically takes about 25 to 30 minutes in a properly preheated oven.

If you're looking for a crispy topping, consider adding breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on the cheese before baking. This small adjustment provides an excellent contrast in texture and additional flavor, enhancing the overall experience of this baked dish.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

12 oz penne pasta
1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, 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 softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce, mixing well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Transfer to an Oven-safe Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the pasta bake. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or keep it vegetarian by adding more vegetables.

Storing and Reheating

This pasta bake can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy weekdays. Prepare the dish up until the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you're ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge and increase the baking time by 5 to 10 minutes, as it will be cold.

Leftovers can easily last for up to three days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or for a quicker, more even reheating, place the leftover pasta bake in a covered oven-safe dish and warm it at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

If you’d like to freeze the bake, make sure to allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil. It can be stored frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as described before.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens and the acidity of the dressing provide a nice contrast to the creamy richness of the pasta. You can also serve it with garlic bread to really emphasize the garlicky flavors throughout.

For a fun twist on serving, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top before digging in for an unexpected heat. If you're feeling adventurous, toss some sun-dried tomatoes or spinach into the mix for extra flavor and nutrition, elevating the dish while keeping it playful and delicious.

Lastly, a sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan or a dash of lemon zest right before serving can brighten the flavors, adding a fresh finish that cuts through the creaminess without overpowering it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when ready to serve.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, or even feta for a unique flavor.

→ Is this dish spicy?

No, it's not spicy. If you prefer some heat, you can add red pepper flakes to taste.