Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole pan.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic Sauce
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes
until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly
add milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and is smooth. Stir in
Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rotini pasta, diced chicken, and the garlic-parmesan sauce.
If the sauce feels too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until it reaches a creamy consistency.
Add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and mix until evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan
cheese evenly on top for a golden, bubbly crust.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
If you like extra crusty cheese, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye
to prevent burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly
chopped parsley for color and a hint of freshness.
Serving and Storage:
Serve this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake hot, straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with
a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the
refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, warm in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk
to maintain creaminess if needed.
Tips:
- Use rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken for quick preparation.
- Freshly grated Parmesan yields better flavor than pre-grated cheese.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency for a creamy, non-dry bake.
- Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition.
- Cover the casserole with foil during baking for a softer top or remove foil for a crispier crust.
Conclusion:
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting, family-friendly dish that delivers creamy,
cheesy goodness with minimal effort. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it perfect for
weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. With easy-to-follow steps and versatile components, this
recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen for satisfying, home-cooked comfort meals.
FAQ:
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well as alternatives to rotini.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. Bake when ready to serve.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, this pasta bake freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely! Its creamy and cheesy flavor is generally kid-friendly and widely enjoyed.
Can I make it lighter?
You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce cheese slightly for a lighter version.
