Baked Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dinner that’s bursting with flavor and can be whipped up with ease, this Baked Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken breasts nestled in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes—all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy enough for guests but simple enough for a weeknight meal. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder that saves you from juggling multiple pots and pans. Trust me, this recipe is about to become your new go-to when you want something delicious and satisfying without the fuss.

Why This Baked Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Stands Out

What makes this Baked Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta different from your average creamy pasta bake? For starters, the garlic-heavy cream sauce is rich but balanced, thanks to the chicken broth and fresh ingredients like spinach and cherry tomatoes. The chicken breasts are seared first to lock in juiciness, then baked right alongside the pasta, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully in the oven. The addition of Italian seasoning gives a subtle herbaceous lift without overpowering the dish. And the sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds that irresistible golden crust. Whether you choose penne or farfalle, every bite brings a perfect harmony of creamy, savory, and fresh tastes that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Your Shopping Guide

• 8 ounces pasta – Penne or farfalle work best as they hold the sauce well.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing the chicken and adding richness.
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Make sure they’re even in size for uniform cooking.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is key for that bold flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the creamy base. You can substitute with a plant-based cream if preferred.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Adds depth and balances the richness.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for the best melt and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, essential for seasoning.
• 1 cup spinach, chopped – Adds a pop of color and nutrients.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – For a juicy, slightly sweet contrast.
• Fresh parsley – Finely chopped for garnish and freshness.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large pot – For boiling the pasta.
• Large skillet – To sear the chicken and sauté garlic.
• Baking dish (9×13-inch) – To bake the pasta and chicken together.
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – For stirring the sauce.
• Cheese grater – To grate fresh Parmesan cheese.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient amounts.

Build Baked Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of penne or farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Sear the chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Place the chicken in the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the creamy garlic sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (don’t let it burn!). Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine pasta, sauce, and veggies

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir gently to coat. Toss in 1 cup of chopped spinach and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, mixing them through just until the spinach starts to wilt.

Step 5: Assemble and bake

Slice the seared chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces. Pour half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the sliced chicken evenly over the pasta, then top with the remaining pasta mixture. Sprinkle an additional handful of Parmesan cheese on top for extra cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Bake to perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly. The chicken should be cooked through, and the sauce thickened to a creamy consistency.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy the irresistible flavors!

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a light coconut milk to reduce fat content while keeping creaminess.
• Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta to increase fiber and protein.
• Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrients and volume.
• Replace chicken breasts with turkey breasts for a leaner protein option.
• Cut back on cheese or use a reduced-fat Parmesan alternative to lower saturated fat.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

• Overcooked chicken: Make sure to sear the chicken just until golden and finish cooking it in the oven to avoid dryness.
• Runny sauce: Let the sauce simmer enough to thicken before combining with pasta, and bake uncovered so excess moisture evaporates.
• Undercooked pasta: Cook pasta al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Bitter garlic: Don’t let garlic burn during sautéing; keep the heat moderate and watch closely.

Best Ways to Store

After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will continue absorbing sauce, so you might want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to keep it moist. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne and farfalle are recommended because they hold the sauce well, but you can also use rotini, rigatoni, or even bowtie pasta. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to achieve a similar cheesy flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the entire dish in your baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I serve with this pasta?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but a light side salad or some crusty garlic bread complements it perfectly. For more pasta inspiration, try the Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta or the creamy and flavorful Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta.

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Hungry for More?

If you loved this creamy, garlicky baked pasta, don’t stop here! Explore more comforting pasta bakes and chicken dishes on our site, where fresh ingredients meet simple cooking for maximum flavor. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining friends, these recipes will keep your dinner table exciting and delicious.

Your next dinner favorite is only a few clicks away—let’s get cooking!

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