Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is just what you need! This dish is cheesy, creamy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for family dinners or meals with friends, it’s sure to become a favorite!
Why Make This Recipe
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. It’s quick to make, requires minimal prep, and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that’s loaded with cheese? It’s a true crowd-pleaser—great for kids and adults alike!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
- 1 pound rotini pasta, cooked and drained
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 2 (15 ounce) jars Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup garlic parmesan sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic parmesan sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- If the mixture is too thick, add some reserved pasta cooking water to achieve desired consistency.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
This dish is best served hot, straight from the oven. You can enjoy it on its own or with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Make sure to let it cool for a few minutes before digging in!
How to Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
If you have leftovers (which is rare), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
Tips to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta before mixing it in; it should be al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Feel free to add more veggies like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time on prep!
Variation
Want to change things up? You can replace the chicken with cooked sausage or shrimp for a different flavor. You might also try different pasta shapes like penne or fusilli!
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before baking. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
What can I serve with this dish?
Garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed veggies are great sides to complete your meal!
Now you can enjoy a hearty and delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake any day of the week! Happy cooking!