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: 8 ounces of penne pasta; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Creations

I love indulging in hearty dishes that bring comfort on a busy weeknight, and this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake has quickly become one of my favorites. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy garlic sauce creates a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Not only does it come together easily, but it also feeds a crowd, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. I can’t wait for you to experience the warmth of this meal as I have!

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T08:02:37.730Z

When I first tried this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it turned out. The secret lies in the balance of flavors; I used roasted garlic which adds depth to the dish, transforming ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. Each bite is an explosion of creaminess, with a hint of spices that elevate the overall taste.

Additionally, I learned that using a mixture of cheeses enhances the creaminess and adds a wonderful richness that keeps you coming back for more. Baking the pasta gives it a delightful crust while keeping the inside creamy and flavorful, making it a dish I often crave!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy garlic sauce that hugs every piece of pasta
Tender chicken pieces mixed perfectly with the cheesy pasta
Easy to prepare and bakes to perfection in one dish

Cooking Pasta to Perfection

The foundation of this dish begins with cooking the penne pasta just right. To achieve that ideal al dente texture, boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water. Follow the package instructions carefully, usually between 9 to 11 minutes, checking for doneness a minute early to ensure it retains a slight bite. Once drained, avoid rinsing the pasta, as this removes the starch that helps the sauce cling to it.

It's recommended to toss the drained pasta with a splash of olive oil to prevent clumping while you prepare the creamy sauce. This also enhances the flavor, ensuring each bite is coated and flavorful. Keep an eye on the pasta to prevent overcooking, as it will further soften during baking.

The Creamy Garlic Sauce

The star of the dish is the creamy garlic sauce that wraps around each piece of pasta splendidly. Start by sautéing minced garlic in olive oil until you can smell its sweetness but not browned, about 1 minute. This releases the aromatic oils and prevents bitterness, essential for creating a harmonious sauce.

When adding the heavy cream and chicken broth, maintain medium heat to avoid curdling the cream. Stir continuously until the mixture is glossy and well combined, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that rich, luxurious texture that defines your finished dish. If your sauce seems too thick, add an extra splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.

Baking and Serving Tips

When combining the pasta with your creamy sauce in the baking dish, ensure every piece is evenly coated. This is key to flavor distribution; no one wants dry pasta! As you top with cheese, consider mixing different types for additional depth. Adding a layer of Parmesan alongside mozzarella will provide a flavor contrast with a pleasant nutty note.

After baking, let the pasta bake sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the sauce to settle, making serving easier and reducing the risk of burns. For an extra pop of color and freshness, sprinkle more freshly chopped parsley over the top just before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious pasta bake:

Ingredients

8 ounces of penne pasta
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to check your pantry for these ingredients before starting!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a mouthwatering pasta bake:

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.

Mix Ingredients

Add the cream cheese to the skillet and mix until fully melted and blended. Stir in the shredded chicken and half of the mozzarella cheese, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Bake

In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce, ensuring the pasta is well-coated. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Your comforting meal is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed spinach to the mix. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time on preparation.

Storage and Reheating

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake can be conveniently stored for future meals. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. If freezing, it’s best to do so before baking to maintain the texture of the pasta and sauce.

When ready to enjoy leftovers, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) ensures it's warmed through safely.

Flavor Variations

Customize this recipe with different proteins or vegetables to match your preferences or what you have on hand. For a twist, swap the chicken for shrimp or sautéed mushrooms, adding they should be cooked until just done before mixing with the sauce. Adding spinach or broccoli in the mixing stage not only enhances nutrition but also adds vibrant color.

For those avoiding dairy or seeking a healthier option, substitute cream with cashew cream or a non-dairy milk thickened with cornstarch. Nutritional yeast can replace the cheese for a cheesy flavor in a vegan version. Just note these variations may alter texture slightly, so adjust baking time as needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version, but the sauce may not be as rich.

→ Can I add vegetables to the bake?

Absolutely! Spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers all work well. Just sauté them briefly before mixing in with the sauce.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings.