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Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Pasta Bake

Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Pasta Bake
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy one-pan dinner combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce baked to golden perfection. This comforting, family-friendly dish is quick to prepare, uses versatile ingredients, and is ideal for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Protein

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1 to 1.5 lbs)

Pasta

  • Short pasta (penne or rotini) – 12 oz

Sauce

  • Butter – 2 tablespoons
  • Fresh minced garlic – 3 cloves
  • Heavy cream or half-and-half – 1 cup
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese – 1 cup
  • Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
  • Salt – 1 teaspoon (to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper – ½ teaspoon (to taste)

Cheese Topping

  • Shredded mozzarella cheese – 1 to 1½ cups
  • Additional Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup (for topping)

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from heat, then shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook the Pasta: While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy when baked.
  3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Slowly stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.
  4. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken into the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss everything together to ensure the pasta and chicken are well coated with the rich garlic Parmesan sauce.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a baking dish. Top evenly with shredded mozzarella and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheeses for better melt and flavor compared to pre-shredded options.
  • Do not overcook the pasta before baking; keep it al dente to maintain texture.
  • Cook garlic just until fragrant to prevent it from turning bitter.
  • Try substituting Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a sharper cheese profile.
  • After baking, let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes to set and make serving easier.

Nutrition

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan, Chicken Bake, Pasta Bake, One-Pan Meal, Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Easy Dinner, Weeknight Meal

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/garlic-parmesan-chicken-pasta-bake/