Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Bake

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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Bake

Description

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich garlic butter cream sauce topped with melted cheese. This baked pasta dish is creamy, cheesy, and packed with savoury garlic flavour in every bite. The golden, bubbly cheese topping and creamy sauce make it feel like a restaurant-quality meal while remaining simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, meal prep, or cosy gatherings. It delivers a satisfying combination of protein, carbohydrates, and comforting flavours that everyone loves. The creamy garlic butter sauce coats every piece of pasta and chicken, creating an irresistible dish that is both indulgent and hearty.

Servings

Serves: 6 people

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 2 large chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pasta

  • 12 ounces (340g) penne pasta
  • Water for boiling
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For Topping

  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta.

Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.

Whisk in flour and cook for another minute. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously.

Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer until smooth and thick.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Mix cooked pasta and chicken with the garlic cream sauce. Transfer to a greased baking dish.

Top with mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden top.

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Recipe Notes

  • Rotisserie chicken can save preparation time.
  • Add spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest sauce.
  • The pasta can be assembled ahead and baked later.

Tips for Success

  1. Do not overcook the pasta; it continues cooking in the oven.
  2. Use room-temperature milk for a smoother sauce.
  3. Fresh garlic creates the best flavour.
  4. Allow the bake to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  5. Broil briefly for an extra golden cheese topping.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 620
  • Protein: 34g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Sugar: 5g

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary according to ingredients used.

Health Benefits

Excellent Source of Protein

Chicken provides high-quality protein that supports muscle growth and tissue repair.

Rich in Calcium

Milk, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese contribute calcium and phosphorus for strong bones.

Provides Long-Lasting Energy

Pasta supplies complex carbohydrates that help maintain energy levels.

Supports Immune Function

Garlic contains antioxidants and beneficial compounds that may support immunity.

Satisfying and Filling

The combination of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates promotes satiety and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the pasta bake and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months.

Q: What pasta works best?
Penne, rigatoni, and rotini are excellent choices.

Q: Can I make it lighter?
Yes. Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheese.

Q: How should leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Q: What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli pair beautifully.

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