Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and pasta, then this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is exactly what you need. This dish is a family favorite, offering the rich flavor of Alfredo and garlic Parmesan sauce with perfectly cooked chicken and pasta, all baked to golden, bubbly perfection. It’s a great choice for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week ahead.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent while being easy enough to prepare on a busy evening. The rotini pasta acts as the perfect vessel for soaking up all the creamy sauces, while the chicken adds heartiness and protein. Topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, the result is a cheesy, satisfying bake that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. The sprinkle of fresh parsley on top is the perfect finishing touch, adding a burst of freshness to this creamy, comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Cheesy – A perfect balance of Alfredo and garlic Parmesan sauces with gooey mozzarella.
2. Hearty and Filling – Packed with chicken and pasta, this dish will keep you satisfied.
3. Kid-Friendly – A delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that even picky eaters will love.
4. Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and steps make it perfect for weeknight dinners.
5. Perfect for Leftovers – This dish stores well and makes for a tasty lunch the next day.

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Ingredients

• Rotini pasta
• Cooked chicken (diced or shredded)
• Alfredo sauce
• Garlic Parmesan sauce
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Add Bacon: For extra flavor, crispy bacon bits can be added to the pasta before baking.
• Low-Carb: Use cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles instead of pasta to make this dish low-carb.
• Extra Veggies: Add in some broccoli, bell peppers, or onions for more veggies and color.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or a few jalapeños for some heat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic Parmesan sauce, salt, and black pepper. Add the reserved pasta water to the mixture to thin the sauce slightly, if needed, and stir everything until evenly combined.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rotini pasta to the sauce mixture, stirring until all the pasta is well-coated.

Step 4: Bake the Dish

Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, spreading it evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you prefer a golden, crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Since it will bake further in the oven, cook the pasta until it’s just al dente to avoid it becoming too soft.
• Use rotisserie chicken: For even more convenience, use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Adjust sauce consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, add more reserved pasta water or a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
• Baking dish tip: Ensure the baking dish is well-greased to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

How to Serve

Serve this dish as a main course with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. The creamy, cheesy pasta pairs beautifully with something fresh and crunchy. You can also top it with additional grated Parmesan or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled, uncooked dish. Cover it tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes of cook time.

Reheating

Reheat the leftovers in the microwave or in the oven covered with foil until heated through. You can also sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top before reheating for a fresh cheesy topping.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle for the rotini.

2. Can I make this dish without chicken?

Yes, you can skip the chicken and add more vegetables or make it a vegetarian dish with a meat substitute.

3. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with provolone, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.

4. How can I make this dish lighter?

Use low-fat versions of the Alfredo and garlic Parmesan sauces, and opt for a reduced-fat mozzarella.

5. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

6. How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.

7. What should I serve with this dish?

A side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy, cheesy bake.

8. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, using store-bought Alfredo sauce can save time and still yield a delicious result.

9. Can I add more cheese?

Absolutely! You can add more mozzarella or sprinkle extra Parmesan over the top for even cheesier goodness.

10. How long will this dish last in the fridge?

Leftovers will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect comfort food that’s simple to make and sure to satisfy. With creamy Alfredo and garlic Parmesan sauces, tender chicken, and melted cheese, it’s a filling and flavorful dish the whole family will love. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a dish to bring to a potluck, this pasta bake checks all the boxes. It’s indulgent, comforting, and always a hit on the dinner table.

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