Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine tender rotini pasta mingling with juicy, seasoned chicken, all enveloped in a creamy garlic sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella. This hearty comfort food is perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a dish that combines simple ingredients to create something truly delightful, making it a staple in my home.

Why you’ll love this dish

What sets this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake apart? For starters, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking only about 45 minutes from start to table. It’s also a budget-friendly meal that delights not just adults but also kids, making it an ideal choice for families. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or even for meal prepping for the week, the versatility of this dish knows no bounds!

"This pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food! My kids can’t get enough of it, and I love how easy it is to throw together." – A happy home cook.

The cooking process explained

Creating this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is straightforward and enjoyable. First, you’ll cook your rotini until al dente, then combine it with cooked chicken and a luscious creamy mixture. Once the ingredients are well incorporated, it’s all about layering flavors and textures in the baking dish. The final bake brings everything together, resulting in a bubbly, golden masterpiece.

Key ingredients

Here’s what you need for this delightful recipe:

• 1 pound rotini pasta: This shape holds the sauce and toppings beautifully.
• 3 cups cooked chicken: Diced or shredded, it can be leftover rotisserie chicken or freshly cooked.
• 1 cup heavy cream: For that rich, creamy texture.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds saltiness and depth of flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic zings up the dish.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend that enhances the flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully on top.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: For that perfect crunch.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps with browning.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: A pop of color and freshness.