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: 300g pasta (penne or fusilli); 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Oven-Kissed Treats

I love making Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake when I'm in the mood for something comforting and delicious. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to create a hearty meal. It’s especially great for family gatherings or when I have friends over. The best part is how easily it comes together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want it on your dinner menu every week!

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-24T02:05:36.117Z

When I first made this dish, it was a total hit in my household. The rich garlic flavor fused perfectly with the creamy sauce, making each bite a delight. I especially love how the melted cheese on top gets that golden hue in the oven, creating a visually appealing crust.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with different ingredients, and I found adding fresh herbs enhances the flavor immensely. Another tip I can share is to use a mix of cheeses for a more complex taste. It’s these little details that elevate this pasta bake to something truly special.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy garlic sauce that perfectly coats the pasta
Tender chicken pieces for protein-packed goodness
Cheesy topping that creates a heavenly crust

Tips for Perfect Pasta

Cooking pasta to the right texture is crucial for a great bake. Aiming for al dente is key, as it allows the pasta to absorb some of the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Since we will be baking the dish afterward, I usually reduce the cooking time by a minute or two compared to the package instructions. Expect the pasta to finish cooking in the oven, which will enhance its texture and flavor.

Remember to salt your boiling water generously; this is the only chance to flavor the pasta itself. A good rule of thumb is to add a tablespoon of salt for every four quarts of water. This simple step will serve as a foundational flavor for your creamy bake.

Enhancing the Sauce

The sauce is the star of this dish, and adjusting it can yield delicious variations. If you prefer a bit of a kick, try adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. Alternatively, for a richer flavor, a splash of white wine can be added to the skillet after the garlic is aromatic, allowing it to simmer off before adding the cream and broth.

Another great addition is vegetables; consider stirring in spinach or sautéed mushrooms with the chicken. These not only add nutritional value but also enhance the texture and flavor profile, giving each bite a slight variation and added interest.

Make-Ahead and Storage Ideas

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake makes for an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. If doing this, assemble everything in your greased baking dish, but hold off on adding the cheese until you're ready to bake. This keeps the cheese fresh and prevents it from becoming too oily while sitting.

For longer storage, consider freezing assembled but unbaked pasta. Cover it well with foil or plastic wrap, and it can last up to three months. When ready to serve, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and proceed with baking, possibly adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

300g pasta (penne or fusilli)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and dried herbs, and bring to a gentle simmer.

Combine Ingredients

Mix the cooked pasta and shredded chicken into the sauce, ensuring everything is well coated. Transfer this mixture to a greased baking dish.

Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy Your Dish!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or spinach into the bake. You can also make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it, then bake when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your creamy bake with a simple side salad to balance the richness. A mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette works beautifully to cut through the creaminess of the dish. I recommend serving it with crusty garlic bread as well; it's perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

For an additional layer of flavor, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of lemon zest. The citric bite will elevate the entire dish and bring out the garlic notes, making it even more enjoyable.

Variations to Explore

For a different twist, swap out the chicken for cooked shrimp or even shredded rotisserie turkey, which can save time. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as seafood will cook quicker than chicken. If you want a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed cauliflower and chickpeas instead of meat, which will still offer a robust texture and flavor.

You can also experiment with different cheese blends, such as adding gouda or cheddar for added creaminess and flavor. Mixing in a bit of cream cheese can enhance the sauce's richness, making it even more indulgent. Just be sure to stir it in until fully melted and combined.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pasta seems too dry after baking, this might be a sign that it needs more sauce. Be sure to coat the pasta thoroughly before baking. In cases where you find it overly thick, a splash of additional chicken broth or cream can help loosen it up, just add it while stirring before you pop it in the oven.

When it comes to the cheese topping, if you notice it browning too quickly, you might want to tent the dish with foil during part of the baking time to achieve that perfect golden hue without burning it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute heavy cream with something else?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, but this may change the flavor and richness.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use uncooked chicken?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked through before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the pasta bake for extra nutrition and flavor.