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Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake

This Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake is SO EASY! A creamy, cheesy, garlicky delight perfect for weeknights or impressing guests.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work best)
  • 1 lb chicken breast cooked and diced
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • Start by cooking your pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. If you haven’t cooked the chicken yet, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning, then cook them in a skillet over medium heat with olive oil until golden and cooked through. Let the chicken rest, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
  • In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté in olive oil until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
  • Turn off the heat and add the cooked pasta and diced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses until everything is well coated and the cheese begins to melt.
  • Transfer the mixture into your greased baking dish. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top for a beautiful golden crust.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pasta for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. For an extra crisp layer, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes—just watch carefully to prevent burning.
  • Once out of the oven, let the bake rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve hot and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Baking Dish
  • Mixing spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cheese Grater

Notes

  • Use penne or rotini pasta for best sauce cling and texture.
  • Cook chicken ahead to speed up assembly time.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated in oven or microwave.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based protein.
  • Add veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.