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: 250g penne pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 500g chicken breast, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I absolutely adore this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake! It combines tender pieces of chicken with al dente pasta in a luscious garlic cream sauce that’s both comforting and delicious. The crispy, cheesy topping adds the perfect finishing touch. This dish has become a family favorite in our home, especially during busy weeknights. Plus, it’s so easy to make, and I can whip it up in no time. I can't wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Lorna Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-02-27T17:37:35.001Z

When I first tried this creamy garlic chicken pasta bake, I was blown away by the richness of the sauce paired with the tender chicken and pasta. It’s one of those comfort dishes that hits the spot on a chilly evening. I used a combination of cream and chicken broth to achieve that silky texture that I love, which makes the entire dish feel indulgent yet approachable.

What I discovered is that letting the pasta bake in the oven for a bit creates a wonderful layer of cheesy crust on top. By using a mix of mozzarella and parmesan, I was able to create a perfect golden brown finish that my family can’t resist. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Rich and creamy garlic sauce that's utterly irresistible
Perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in cheesy goodness
Great for meal prep and feeding the whole family

Understanding the Ingredients

Choosing the right pasta is essential for this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake. I prefer penne for its tubular shape, which holds the sauce beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try rigatoni or fusilli, but avoid delicate pastas like spaghetti that might break apart during mixing and baking. The al dente texture is vital, as it keeps the pasta firm even after it's layered with the creamy sauce and baked.

The balance of cheeses is another key component of this dish. Mozzarella provides a creamy, melty texture while parmesan adds a sharpness that elevates the flavor profile. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half of the mozzarella with a low-fat cheese. Just keep in mind that the melting quality of the cheeses may vary, and the end result might be a little different in texture.

Baking Tips and Techniques

When baking, ensure your oven is fully preheated to 180°C (350°F) before you place the dish inside. This not only helps achieve a bubbly, golden top but also ensures that the chicken in your pasta bake is thoroughly heated and reaches a safe internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). I recommend using a broiler for the last few minutes of baking to really crisp up the cheese topping if you like a golden brown finish.

If you're making this dish ahead of time, you can prepare everything up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just remember to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. When you're ready to bake, allow the dish to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps it heat more evenly and reduces the risk of sudden temperature changes that could lead to curdling in the cream sauce.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

250g penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
500g chicken breast, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Allow to simmer for a few minutes before adding the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Bake

Mix the cooked pasta with the creamy chicken mixture, then transfer everything to a baking dish. Top with additional mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven, let it sit for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the mixture. It not only enhances the taste but also adds a nutritious touch.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or steamed vegetables for a nutrient boost. I love to serve it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the dish. Crusty garlic bread on the side is also a perfect match for scooping up any leftover sauce on your plate.

For an elegant touch, you can sprinkle additional fresh parsley or even some crispy breadcrumbs on top just before serving. If you’re feeling indulgent, a drizzle of truffle oil can elevate the flavors and make this dish feel extra special during family gatherings or celebratory dinners.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply transfer the portion to a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. If you prefer oven reheating, cover the dish with foil and bake at a low temperature of 150°C (300°F) for about 15 minutes to prevent drying out while ensuring it’s thoroughly heated.

This pasta bake also freezes beautifully! To freeze, assemble the dish but don’t bake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before popping it in the oven. This is a fantastic way to have a homemade meal ready to go on a busy day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?

Yes, whole wheat pasta works great for this recipe and adds more fiber.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure that the chicken broth is gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this pasta bake?

A simple green salad and garlic bread make perfect side dishes to complete the meal.