Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta bake fresh from the oven. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, this Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake brings together tender pieces of chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy, garlic-infused cheese sauce that feels like a hug on a plate. Inspired by the classic Italian casseroles my grandmother used to make on chilly evenings, this dish combines rich flavors with easy-to-follow steps, making it a go-to for anyone looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, feeding a hungry crowd, or simply craving a hearty, satisfying meal, this pasta bake promises warmth, flavor, and irresistible cheesy goodness in every bite.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work best)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 cup broccoli florets (optional, for extra greens)

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the Oven

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that the pasta bake cooks evenly, giving the cheese topping a beautiful golden finish while keeping the interior creamy and tender. Take a moment to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This step might seem small, but it prevents the cheesy, creamy mixture from sticking to the pan, making serving and cleanup much easier. A well-greased dish also helps achieve those slightly crispy edges that make baked pasta so irresistible.

Cook the Chicken

Next, we focus on the star protein of this dish—the chicken. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your diced chicken. Season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried Italian herbs. The paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor and a beautiful color to the chicken, while the Italian herbs lend aromatic notes reminiscent of classic Italian cooking.

Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s lightly browned on the outside and fully cooked through. Properly cooking the chicken ensures every bite of your pasta bake is flavorful and tender. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. At this stage, you can cover it with foil to keep it warm while preparing the sauce.

Prepare the Garlic Sauce

The creamy garlic sauce is what truly elevates this pasta bake. In the same skillet you cooked the chicken, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as this can make the sauce bitter.

Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cooking the flour for a minute or so removes the raw taste and thickens the sauce later. Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens into a smooth, creamy consistency—about 4-5 minutes.

This step is where you can get creative. For a richer sauce, a splash of cream or a small amount of cream cheese can be added. For extra flavor, a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of mustard powder can enhance the depth of the sauce without overpowering the garlic and cheese.

Add Cheese

Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. These cheeses melt beautifully into the sauce, creating a rich, velvety texture that coats every piece of pasta and chicken. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

The key to this step is patience—stir gently until all the cheese has melted completely. Avoid high heat, as it can cause the sauce to separate. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan provides both creamy meltiness and a sharp, nutty flavor that balances the garlic and buttery base perfectly.

Combine Pasta and Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sautéed chicken and broccoli florets if you’re adding vegetables. Pour the creamy garlic cheese sauce over the mixture and fold gently until everything is evenly coated.

Using a gentle folding motion prevents the pasta from breaking and keeps the chicken pieces intact. If you want to make it extra cheesy, you can mix in a little extra mozzarella at this stage. The goal is to create a uniform mixture where each bite delivers pasta, chicken, vegetables, and sauce in perfect harmony.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella over the top to create a golden, bubbly crust as it bakes. This final layer of cheese is what makes baked pasta visually appealing and adds that signature cheesy pull when served.

If desired, you can also sprinkle a few extra herbs, such as Italian seasoning or fresh parsley, on top before baking. This adds both flavor and an appealing touch of color.

Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Baking allows the flavors to meld together while the cheese on top melts and turns golden brown. Keep an eye on the dish towards the end of the baking time to ensure the cheese doesn’t over-brown.

As it bakes, the aroma of garlic, cheese, and herbs will fill your kitchen, making it nearly impossible to wait for it to finish. The edges may develop a slightly crispy texture while the interior remains creamy and rich—a contrast that adds to the enjoyment of every bite.

Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Resting ensures the sauce sets slightly, making it easier to serve while maintaining its creamy consistency.

Before plating, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. This simple addition elevates the presentation, making it look as good as it tastes. Serve the Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

• Yield: 6 servings

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake

• Choose the Right Pasta: Use pasta that can hold up to baking, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. They absorb the sauce without becoming mushy.

• Cheese Choices: For a more indulgent version, mix in cheddar or provolone with the mozzarella. A touch of cream cheese in the sauce also makes it ultra-creamy.

• Add Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers add color, nutrients, and texture. Just make sure they are lightly steamed or sautéed before adding to prevent excess water in the bake.

• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle kick.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this pasta bake lies in its layers. Tender chicken provides protein and substance, while the garlic cheese sauce binds everything together in a creamy, flavorful embrace. Baking it allows the top layer of mozzarella to crisp slightly, creating a delightful contrast with the soft pasta underneath. The dish is customizable, forgiving, and ideal for feeding a family or impressing guests without complicated techniques.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.

• Garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls are perfect for sopping up the extra cheese sauce.

• Pair with a simple roasted vegetable platter for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This bake freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering loosely to prevent drying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake is a crowd-pleaser that combines convenience, flavor, and comfort. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, sparks conversation, and leaves little to no leftovers. Its versatility allows for creativity while remaining approachable for home cooks of any skill level. Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual get-togethers, or even special occasions, this pasta bake will quickly become a family favorite. The golden, bubbling cheese, tender chicken, and garlic-infused sauce deliver the ultimate combination of flavors that make every bite irresistible.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of chicken?
   Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative. They stay juicy and add a slightly richer flavor.

2. What pasta works best for this bake?
   Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni hold up well during baking. Avoid delicate pasta like angel hair or thin spaghetti as it may overcook.

3. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers. You can also add plant-based protein for a filling meal.

4. Is it possible to use low-fat milk?
   Yes, low-fat milk works fine, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy. Adding a little extra cheese can help maintain richness.

Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A warm, comforting pasta dish perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings. Tender chicken, creamy garlic cheese sauce, and perfectly baked pasta come together for a dish that’s both indulgent and easy to make. Inspired by classic Italian casseroles, this bake is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for weeknights yet special enough for gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 cup broccoli florets (optional)

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs. Cook until lightly browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

• In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly until sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.

• Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese and all Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

• In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli (if using), and cheese sauce. Mix gently until evenly coated.

• Pour mixture into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup mozzarella on top.

• Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and slightly golden.

• Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

• Use sturdy pasta shapes like penne or rotini to hold up during baking.

• For extra creaminess, add a splash of cream or cream cheese to the sauce.

• Vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers can be added for color and nutrition.

• Assemble ahead and refrigerate; bake when ready to serve.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes

Michelle Davis