Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried Italian herbs; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Highlighted under: Hearty Comfort Creations

I absolutely love this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake! The creamy sauce mixed with tender chicken and al dente pasta creates a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. I relish the aromatic garlic that infuses the entire dish, bringing a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s simple yet indulgent, making it an instant favorite at my table. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover chicken, transforming ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:25:37.722Z

When I first made this dish, I was surprised at how quickly it came together and how delicious it turned out! The combination of garlic and cream creates a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta and chicken. I recommend using freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. It melts into the sauce beautifully, elevating the entire dish to another level.

One key tip is to bake the pasta just until it’s bubbly and golden on top. I’ve learned that perfecting this step makes all the difference in texture, giving you that irresistible crispy top while keeping the pasta moist underneath. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy garlic sauce that envelops every bite.
Cheesy, bubbly topping that adds a delightful crunch.
Versatile dish that’s easy to customize with vegetables or different proteins.

Pasta Selection and Texture

Choosing the right pasta is crucial for achieving the best texture in your Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake. I recommend using penne since its tubular shape allows the creamy sauce to cling beautifully, ensuring flavorful bites in every forkful. Cook the pasta only until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven, absorbing additional flavors from the sauce while maintaining a satisfying bite.

If you want to experiment, consider using rigatoni or fusilli. Both have ridges that trap the sauce well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, keeping an eye on the texture. Remember, overcooking the pasta initially can lead to a mushy final dish, so tasting it a minute or two before it’s fully cooked is a great strategy.

Ingredient Insights

The heavy cream in this recipe creates a luscious, velvety sauce, but if you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute it with half-and-half or even a plant-based cream alternative like coconut milk. These substitutions will still give you a creamy texture, although the flavor profile may vary slightly. If using a lighter option, be cautious not to overheat it to prevent curdling.

Garlic is another key player in this bake, infusing the dish with aromatic richness. When sautéing, aim for a golden hue but not brown, which can impart a bitter taste. My tip is to constantly stir the garlic to achieve that perfect fragrant note. If fresh garlic isn’t available, feel free to use garlic powder, but reduce the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This pasta bake can be a fantastic make-ahead meal. Assemble it the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time, ensuring it’s heated through. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights while still enjoying a home-cooked meal.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to three days. To reheat, place the portion in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated throughout. You can also microwave individual servings, but I recommend covering them to retain moisture.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

8 oz penne pasta
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the minced garlic with a bit of olive oil, sautéing until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Italian herbs. Allow to simmer for about 5 minutes before mixing in half of the Parmesan cheese.

Combine and Bake

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and the creamy garlic sauce. Mix well, adding salt and pepper to taste. Transfer to a greased baking dish, and top with the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Pro Tips

For a little extra flavor, consider adding sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the mix. They pair wonderfully with the garlic sauce!

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake is its versatility. You can easily add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to enhance its nutrition and flavor. Add them to the skillet just before incorporating the cream, sautéing until tender, then mix them into the pasta bake. This not only adds color but also balances the richness of the dish.

Switching up the protein can also lead to delightful variations. Consider using shredded rotisserie chicken for faster prep or even substituting with cooked shrimp or sausage. Each option will provide a distinct flavor, so don’t hesitate to explore what works best for your taste buds!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pasta bake appears too dry after baking, it might be due to inadequate sauce. Ensure that your sauce is sufficiently creamy before mixing it with the pasta. Adding a splash more chicken broth or cream can bring it back to the right consistency. A well-developed sauce should coat the pasta evenly and look glossy, not dull or clunky.

On the other hand, if your cheese topping isn’t achieving that bubbly, golden crust, it may need more direct heat. Consider broiling it for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Broiling will quickly caramelize the cheese and elevate the dish’s visual appeal, making it even more appetizing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape would work, but I recommend sticking to similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

You can use low-fat cream and reduce the amount of cheese for a healthier version.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and sauce, combine them, and store them in the fridge. Just bake when you're ready to serve.

→ What other proteins can I use?

Shrimp, turkey, or even a plant-based protein would work well in this recipe!