Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Indulge in Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

If you’re searching for a comforting and flavorful dish that’s bound to become a family favorite, look no further than the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake. This recipe combines tender chicken, rich parmesan, and a garlicky homemade cream sauce that perfectly coats each penne pasta piece. It’s the perfect meal for a busy weeknight, offering both ease and deliciousness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Not only is this pasta bake incredibly tasty, but it’s also versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking in a skillet or using a crockpot, you’ll find that the homemade garlic parmesan sauce—an internet sensation—brings a burst of flavor that’s far superior to any store-bought version. Plus, the creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a dish that everyone will want seconds of!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium bowl
• Large skillet
• Pot for pasta
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large zip-top bag or bowl for marinating

Ingredients

Homemade Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• 1 stick butter
• 6 large cloves garlic, minced
• 2/3 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1-3 tablespoons hot sauce, depending on your heat preference
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, minced

Chicken, Pasta & Cream Sauce

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1.5 lbs chicken breast or tenders
• 2 tbsp poultry seasoning or all-purpose seasoning
• 8 oz block cream cheese, cut into cubes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated or shredded
• 1 tablespoon flat-leaf parsley, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: garlic bread or breadsticks

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the garlic parmesan sauce by heating butter in a medium bowl until partially melted. Add in the remaining ingredients and stir until combined. Set aside.

2. Place chicken in a bowl or large zip-top bag along with a few tablespoons of olive oil, tossing to coat. Add in your preferred chicken seasoning and rub it into all sides of the chicken.

3. Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for about 3-4 minutes until well browned. Flip once, reduce heat to low. Add a heaping spoonful of garlic parmesan sauce into the skillet, allowing it to melt into the chicken as it cooks.

4. Once the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees (about 6-8 minutes total), toss the chicken in the butter sauce. Set aside under tented foil to rest, then dice into large chunks.

5. In the same skillet over medium-low heat, add in the remaining garlic parmesan sauce and the softened cubed cream cheese and heavy cream. Cook until the cream cheese melts, stirring occasionally.

6. Add the diced chicken into the cream sauce, tossing well until combined, and continue to simmer. Meanwhile, cook pasta in a pot of salted water according to the package instructions for al dente. Add the pasta water and cooked pasta to the cream sauce. Toss everything together until well coated.

7. I like to add extra parmesan cheese, minced parsley, and red pepper flakes before serving. Serve warm with garlic bread or breadsticks.

Tips for Success

• Don’t rush the sauce; let it simmer gently to enhance the flavors.
• Adjust the hot sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
• Rest the chicken before cutting to keep it juicy.

Additional Tips or Variations

• Try adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
• Swap penne pasta for your favorite pasta shape for a different texture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 750 | Protein: 45g | Fat: 40g | Carbohydrates: 60g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, if you’re short on time, pre-cooked chicken can be used. Just add it to the sauce towards the end to heat through.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.

Conclusion

Now that you have everything you need to create this delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, it’s time to head to the kitchen and give it a try. I can’t wait to hear about your cooking adventures and how much your loved ones enjoy this dish. Feel free to share your experiences and any creative twists you add!