Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Bake

Nothing beats a comforting, cheesy pasta bake on a busy weeknight, and this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Bake fits the bill perfectly. It’s a luscious, rich dish loaded with tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne, and a garlicky cream sauce that’s simply irresistible. The melty mozzarella and sharp Parmesan add depth and a delightful golden crust that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is designed to make your dinner routine easier and tastier.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Bake stands out because it balances indulgence with simplicity. The sauce is made from scratch using just a handful of ingredients, but it tastes like it’s been simmering all day. The garlic shines without overpowering the dish, and the chicken stays juicy thanks to quick searing before baking. Unlike many pasta bakes that rely on canned soups or heavy sauces, this recipe uses fresh cream and chicken broth to keep the flavors bright and the texture smooth. Plus, the Italian seasoning and fresh parsley add layers of herbaceous freshness that elevate the whole dish.

If you love a cheesy pasta bake, you might also want to check out the Baked Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta for another twist on creamy chicken pasta goodness!

The Essentials

• 12 oz penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and bits of chicken.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For searing the chicken and bringing out its flavor.
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced: Tender, lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the sauce, providing that signature aromatic punch.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, velvety base of the sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and balances the richness of the cream.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp, salty, and perfect for melting into the sauce.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every layer of the dish.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates that gooey, bubbly topping everyone loves.
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor at the end.

Equipment at a Glance

• Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta to al dente perfection.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: To sear the chicken and cook the garlic.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Mixing spoon or spatula: To stir the sauce and combine everything evenly.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch works great): To assemble and bake the creamy chicken penne.
• Cheese grater: If you’re using a block of Parmesan or mozzarella instead of pre-shredded.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Bake, Made Easy

Step 1: Cook the Penne

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce and chicken.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Chicken

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it into the sauce.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy garlic sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed.

Step 7: Assemble the Bake

Transfer the creamy garlic chicken penne mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the dish uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Remove the bake from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before sprinkling with chopped fresh parsley. This final touch adds brightness and a lovely color contrast.

For a variation packed with veggies, try our Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake—it’s a delicious way to sneak in some greens!

In-Season Swaps

• Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy flavor.
• Spinach or Kale: Stir in fresh baby spinach or chopped kale just before baking for added nutrients.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for a tangy twist.
• Red Bell Peppers: Roast or sauté diced peppers and mix into the pasta for sweetness and color.
• Fresh Basil: Substitute parsley with fresh basil for a peppery, aromatic note.

Steer Clear of These

• Overcooking the Pasta: Avoid mushy penne by cooking it just until al dente.
• Burnt Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly—watch closely to prevent bitterness from burning.
• Skimping on Seasoning: Salt and pepper are crucial for flavor—taste as you go.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese with Additives: For best melt and flavor, freshly grated cheese is ideal.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Bake keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container. To reheat, microwave individual portions until warm, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 15 minutes.

For longer storage, freeze the bake before adding mozzarella cheese on top. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, sprinkle mozzarella on top, and bake as directed until bubbly and golden.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Bake FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a slightly richer flavor and remain juicy. Just dice them similarly and adjust cooking time if needed until fully cooked.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and use a dairy-free cheese substitute. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No worries! You can easily make your own by combining dried oregano, basil, thyme, and a pinch of rosemary. Fresh herbs also work well if you have them on hand.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! You can cook the pasta and chicken, prepare the sauce, and assemble the bake a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for a convenient meal.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Baked Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta – another creamy, comforting pasta bake with a slightly different flavor profile.
• Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake – for a veggie-packed twist on creamy chicken pasta.

Let’s Eat

There’s no better feeling than digging into a warm, cheesy pasta bake that’s packed with flavor and made from scratch. This Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Bake is your new go-to for cozy dinners that come together quickly but taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. Serve it with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. Whether it’s a family dinner or a meal for friends, this dish is sure to become a favorite repeat. So grab your penne, chicken, and garlic, and let’s get cooking!

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