Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is one of those delights that makes you feel instantly at home. Picture this: a creamy, cheesy pasta enveloped in a cozy marinara sauce, topped with gooey melted mozzarella and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for a relaxing weeknight dinner or a warm family gathering. I’ve often turned to this recipe when I want to impress with minimal effort, and it never fails to deliver in flavor and satisfaction.
Why you’ll love this dish
You might be wondering why you should try this recipe. Let’s break it down. First, it’s incredibly quick to whip up, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you get a mouthwatering skillet-to-oven dish that pleases both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s budget-friendly! Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or readily available, allowing you to create a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank.
“This pasta bake is officially my go-to comfort food! The flavors are rich, and it’s super easy to make. My kids devoured it!” – Samantha R.
The cooking process explained
Creating this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is wonderfully straightforward! First, you’ll cook the penne pasta while you prepare the chicken and sauce. Then, it’s just a matter of mixing everything together and baking until bubbly. The process is intuitive, so even if you’re a kitchen novice, you’ll feel confident crafting this dish from start to finish.
What you’ll need
Here’s your ingredient list to make this tasty pasta bake:
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Feel free to swap the penne for another pasta shape if you prefer. You could also use grilled chicken leftovers for a quicker prep!
