If you want a meal that is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, you’re in the right place! This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a true delight. You’ll learn how to prepare tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, all smothered in a rich garlic sauce. Plus, I’ll share tips for easy swaps and tasty variations. Get ready to impress your family with this comforting dish!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups penne pasta
– 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
To make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, gather these fresh ingredients. Start with penne pasta, which gives a nice bite. Choose a pound of chicken breast for a tasty protein base. Olive oil adds flavor as you sauté the chicken. Garlic is key for that rich aroma. Don’t forget dried Italian seasoning for an extra flavor kick.
The creamy sauce comes from heavy cream and chicken broth. Parmesan cheese brings a sharp taste, while mozzarella melts beautifully. Season with salt and pepper to enhance all the flavors. Finally, fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness. For the full recipe, check the complete instructions to create this delightful dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Pasta
Preheating the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key. A hot oven helps the cheese melt nicely and gives a lovely golden color.
Cooking the Penne Pasta
Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups of penne pasta. Cook it until it’s al dente, which takes about 8-10 minutes. You want the pasta to be firm but not hard. Drain the pasta and set it aside. This will be the base of your dish.
Cooking the Chicken
Sautéing Techniques
In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 pound of cubed chicken breast. Make sure to spread it out in a single layer. This helps it brown better.
Seasoning the Chicken
Sprinkle salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning over the chicken. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the chicken turns golden and is fully cooked. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Making the Garlic Sauce
Sautéing Garlic
In the same skillet, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
Incorporating Cream and Broth
Then, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir to mix everything well. Bring this mixture to a simmer. As it heats, it will thicken slightly and create a rich sauce.
Combining and Baking
Mixing the Ingredients
Once your sauce is ready, add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and half of the 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Now, in a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce. Mix well so everything is coated with that creamy goodness.
Baking to Perfection
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Now, bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown. That’s the sign it’s ready to enjoy!
For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
Achieving the Perfect Pasta Texture
To get pasta just right, cook it until it is al dente. This means it should still have a slight bite. Boil the penne pasta in salted water for 8-10 minutes. Drain it well, and do not rinse. Rinsing removes the starch that helps sauce stick.
Ensuring Chicken is Cooked Properly
Cook the chicken until it is golden and no longer pink inside. This usually takes 6-8 minutes on medium heat. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This step is key for both taste and safety.
Flavor Enhancements
Suggested Herbs and Spices
To boost flavor, consider adding fresh basil or oregano. These herbs pair well with garlic and cheese. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. This adds depth to the dish and makes it even more enjoyable.
Adjusting for Creaminess
If you like a creamier sauce, add more heavy cream or cheese. You can also mix in some cream cheese for extra richness. Just remember to adjust your seasonings. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing with Sides
This pasta bake goes well with a simple salad or garlic bread. A fresh green salad adds crunch and lightness. Garlic bread offers a nice, buttery touch to complement the dish.
Appropriate Garnishes
For a pop of color, top your pasta bake with fresh parsley. You can also add grated Parmesan on top before serving. This makes the dish look fancy and inviting, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Variations
Dietary Adaptations
Gluten-Free Options
You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Simply swap the penne pasta for gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great options that taste just as good. Make sure to check the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta may cook differently.
Vegetarian Alternatives
For a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You can also add beans for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for flavor.
Ingredient Swaps
Different Cheeses
While Parmesan and mozzarella are great, you can try other cheeses. Cheddar adds a sharp taste, while gouda brings a smoky flavor. Mix and match to find your favorite blend!
Alternative Proteins
If you want to switch up the protein, turkey or shrimp work well. You can also use tofu for a plant-based option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
Flavor Profile Variations
Adding Vegetables
Adding vegetables can give your dish a fresh twist. Consider bell peppers, broccoli, or peas. They add color and nutrition. Just cook them briefly before mixing them in with the pasta.
Spice and Heat Options
Want some heat? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer milder flavors, herbs like basil or thyme can add depth without the spice.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
Best Practices for Refrigerating
After enjoying your cheesy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake, let it cool down. Once it’s at room temp, transfer the leftovers into an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it longer, freezing is a great option.
Freezing Options
To freeze, place the cooled pasta bake in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can safely freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
Methods for Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, you have a few options. The oven works best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta bake in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until it is warmed through. You can also use the microwave. Just add a splash of water to keep it moist, then heat in short intervals, stirring often.
Maintaining Texture and Flavor
To keep your pasta bake creamy and delicious, avoid overheating. If using the microwave, check often to prevent drying out. For the oven, covering with foil keeps the moisture in. If you want a crispy top, remove the foil for the last few minutes of heating. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
FAQs
Common Cooking Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it first. You can do this by placing it in the fridge overnight. If you are in a hurry, use the microwave’s defrost setting. After thawing, you can cube and cook the chicken as usual.
How do I know when the pasta is al dente?
To check if the pasta is al dente, taste a piece. It should be firm but cooked through. You want it to have a slight bite. If it feels too soft, cook it a bit longer. This texture helps the pasta hold up in the bake.
Recipe Customization
Can I substitute different types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can try using cheddar, gouda, or even feta. Each cheese will give a unique flavor. Mixing different cheeses can also add depth. Just keep the total amount of cheese the same for the best result.
What herbs pair well with this dish?
I love using fresh basil, thyme, or oregano with this dish. These herbs add bright flavors. You can also sprinkle some Italian seasoning for extra zest. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination!
Nutritional Information
Is this recipe high in calories?
Yes, this recipe can be high in calories due to the heavy cream and cheese. Each serving has a good amount of fat and protein. If you’re watching your calorie intake, consider using less cheese or a lighter cream.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can make it healthier by using whole-grain pasta. You might also add more vegetables like spinach or broccoli. Reducing the amount of cheese can also help. These changes keep the dish tasty while cutting calories. For the full recipe, check the earlier section.
This blog post covered all you need for a tasty pasta dish. We discussed the key ingredients, from chicken to cream. I shared step-by-step instructions for cooking and baking. You learned essential tips for perfect texture and flavor.
Remember, you can adapt the recipe based on your diet or swap ingredients. Storage and reheating tips ensure leftovers taste great. Now, it’s time to enjoy your creation and explore your creativity in the kitchen.
