Description

This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta bake is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender penne pasta, juicy chicken, and a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s a meal that will satisfy the whole family. Here’s how to make it

Ingredients

• 12 ounces (340g) penne pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparation Method

Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Prepare the Chicken: Season the diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds extra flavor to your sauce. Next, add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well combined.

Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta and the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the garlic Parmesan sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

Bake the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta.

Bake for Perfection: Bake the pasta in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and the pasta is heated through.

Garnish and Serve: Remove the pasta bake from the oven and, if desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve the dish hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Tips and Conclusion

Tips for Success:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic will enhance the flavor of the dish.
Add Vegetables: For added nutrition and flavor, consider mixing in some cooked vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes before baking.
Make It Ahead: You can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply bake it as instructed.
Conclusion:
This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food. With its rich and flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and gooey melted cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy!