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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole is a comforting and creamy one-dish meal featuring tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce baked to golden perfection. Easy to prepare with pantry staples, it offers a family-friendly balanced dinner full of cheesy goodness and satisfying flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced

Pasta

  • 8 oz penne or rotini pasta

Sauce

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup milk or cream
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Topping

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Reduce heat to low and add minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until fragrant but not browned. Stir in cream cheese and milk, whisking until smooth. Add grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce is creamy and thickened.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce and chicken pieces.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; al dente works best for baking.
  • Warm the sauce gently to avoid curdling.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.
  • Grate your own Parmesan cheese for superior flavor and melting quality.

Nutrition

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan, Chicken Pasta Casserole, One-dish, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Creamy Pasta, Family Friendly