Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, creamy, and cheesy dinner that’s simple to prepare, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole is your new go-to recipe. This delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole made easy! Creamy, cheesy, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner everyone will love. It combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the workweek, this dish offers all the savory goodness with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making dinner stress-free.
• One-Dish Wonder: Combines protein, carbs, and sauce in one pan for easy cleanup.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Mild garlic and cheesy goodness make it a universal favorite.
• Perfectly Creamy Texture: The sauce coats every bite for ultimate comfort food satisfaction.
• Customizable: Easily adapted with your favorite veggies or proteins.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple yet flavorful ingredients come together effortlessly to create the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole. Each ingredient plays an essential role in building that creamy, garlicky, cheesy magic.

• Chicken breasts: Tender, juicy protein that serves as the centerpiece of the casserole.
• Uncooked pasta: Penne or rotini work best to soak up all the creamy sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced to provide an aromatic and savory base.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds rich, nutty flavor and melts perfectly into the sauce.
• Heavy cream or half-and-half: Creates the luscious creamy texture throughout the dish.
• Chicken broth: Enhances depth and moisture in the sauce.
• Butter and olive oil: Used for sautéing garlic and chicken to develop flavor.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top creating a bubbly golden crust.
• Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a burst of fresh color and brightness when sprinkled on top.

Variations for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole

One of the best things about this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole recipe is how versatile it is. Feel free to tweak and customize based on what you have in the fridge or your personal dietary needs. Here are some popular ways to switch things up.

• Vegetable boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrients and color.
• Chicken substitutes: Swap chicken for turkey, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein.
• Dairy alternatives: Use lactose-free cream or cheeses for sensitive diets.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for more heat.
• Gluten-free options: Use gluten-free pasta to fit gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat, then cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and slice the chicken once slightly cooled.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil your pasta in salted water just until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside. Slightly undercooked pasta works better since it will finish cooking in the casserole.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt more butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant but not browned. Gradually add heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and whisk in grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl or casserole dish, combine cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese for extra melty goodness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on the edges.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole

• Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and has a sharper, fresher flavor than pre-grated.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta absorbs more sauce during baking without getting mushy.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes after baking to set up and make serving easier.
• Customize cheese blends: Mix mozzarella with provolone or fontina for extra gooey texture and flavor complexity.
• Add a crispy topping: Stir together breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top for a crunchy contrast.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds vibrant color and a refreshing herbal note that brightens the rich casserole.

Side Dishes

Pair with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic roasted vegetables to bring balance and extra texture to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking individual portions in ramekins for a charming presentation or add a sprinkle of chili flakes and lemon zest for an unexpected flavor burst.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep flavors fresh and moist.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly with foil or freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions covered in the microwave or gently warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through to maintain creaminess and avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that adds extra flavor and saves prep time.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes, use dairy-free cream alternatives and vegan Parmesan substitutes to keep the creamy texture without dairy.

What pasta shapes work best for this casserole?

Penne, rotini, rigatoni, or any short pasta that holds sauce well will work perfectly.

Can I add vegetables to make this casserole healthier?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, or peas can be mixed in to give you a nutritious boost.

How long does this dish typically take to prepare?

You can have the casserole ready and in the oven within 40 to 50 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about the creamy, cheesy goodness of the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is a deliciously simple way to bring warmth and smiles to the dinner table. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

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