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; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 3 cups heavy cream; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Heritage

I absolutely love making this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake whenever I'm looking for a comforting meal that still feels special. The combination of tender chicken, rich garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that pleases everyone at the table. With just the right balance of creaminess and zest, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also makes for fantastic leftovers. Whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta bake is always a hit. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be adding it to your regular rotation!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-02-28T10:29:36.335Z

When I first made this dish, I was experimenting with flavors that would elevate everyday chicken and pasta. The addition of garlic and cream took this meal from mundane to magnificent. I discovered that letting the garlic sauté until golden really brings out its sweetness, which balances beautifully with the richness of the cream.

Another tip I learned along the way is to bake the pasta just until bubbly and slightly crisp on top. This technique not only enhances the flavors but also adds a lovely texture that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. It’s one of those recipes that just gets better with every bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that envelops the pasta
Savory garlic flavor that enhances the chicken
Perfect for meal prep and a crowd-pleaser

Ingredient Insights

The choice of pasta is crucial for this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake. Penne pasta works well because its cylindrical shape captures the creamy sauce in every bite, creating a delightful texture. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free pasta; just be cautious, as cooking times may vary, and overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. Choose a brand known for holding its shape after cooking.

Using heavy cream is essential in this recipe, as it provides the richness and creaminess that this dish is known for. If you're looking to lighten it up, try using a combination of half-and-half and a bit of cream cheese for creaminess without the full fat. However, be aware that this could slightly alter the texture and flavor of the sauce.

Baking Tips

When transferring the pasta mixture to the baking dish, make sure to pick a dish that allowsfor even heat distribution. A glass or ceramic baking dish is ideal because it helps achieve nice, golden edges without burning. Be sure to spread the pasta evenly and avoid overcrowding the dish to ensure even cooking and bubbling of the cheese on top.

Bake until the mozzarella is perfectly melted and slightly browned, which typically takes around 25-30 minutes. If you notice it browning too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning. The visual cue of bubbling around the edges indicates the pasta bake is ready, making it crucial to keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake

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

Make sure to check the seasoning before baking!

Steps

Cook the Pasta

Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the shredded chicken, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce mixture and stir until well combined.

Bake the Dish

Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Let the pasta bake cool for a few minutes before digging in!

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake is an excellent candidate for meal prep! You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking. If you want to freeze it, you can do so before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes if it’s still cool.

For leftovers, store any uneaten pasta bake in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to three days. Reheating is simple; just cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. The creamy sauce may separate slightly, so give it a good stir before serving, if necessary.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize the flavors in this dish to suit your taste. Adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach can enhance the depth of flavor, providing additional nutrients and texture. If you're in the mood for a bit of spice, toss in some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños with the garlic to give the dish a kick. For a different herb profile, experiment with fresh basil or thyme instead of Italian seasoning.

You could also substitute the chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken to save time or use cooked sausage for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with roasted vegetables or chickpeas, ensuring you still have a good amount of protein in the dish. Get creative, and make it your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape works! Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of cream.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Just let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

It's great on its own, but you can add a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.