Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

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Introduction:

Looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to make on a busy weeknight? Look no further than this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake. Packed with tender chicken, al dente rotini pasta, and a luscious blend of Alfredo and garlic Parmesan sauces, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this delicious dinner on the table in less than an hour. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound rotini pasta, cooked and drained (save 1 cup of cooking water for casserole)
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
  • 2 (15 ounce) jars Alfredo sauce
  • 1 cup garlic parmesan sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or butter.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic parmesan sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well. Add about ½ cup pasta water if needed for extra sauciness.
  3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
  4. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
  5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Optional: For a golden top, broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  7. Let cool for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
  8. Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
  9. Servings: 8
  10. Kcal: 421 kcal

Serving Tips:

  1. Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake warm straight from the oven for the best flavor and texture.
  2. Garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
  3. Pair the pasta bake with a side salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal and add extra variety.
  4. Present the dish in individual serving bowls or on plates for a more elegant presentation.
  5. Consider serving the pasta bake alongside some roasted vegetables or steamed greens for added nutritional balance.

Storage Tips:

  1. Allow any leftover pasta bake to cool completely before storing.
  2. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
  3. Store the pasta bake in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  4. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.
  5. If you have a larger portion of leftovers, you can also freeze the pasta bake for longer storage. Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag and store for up to 1-2 months.
  6. When ready to enjoy frozen leftovers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  7. For the best results, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta before reheating to restore its creamy texture.
  8. Always ensure leftovers are reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe? Absolutely! While rotini pasta is recommended for its spiral shape that holds the sauce well, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle are all excellent alternatives that work perfectly in this dish.
  2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Simply cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to take the chill off, then bake according to the recipe instructions.
  3. Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce instead of store-bought? Absolutely! While store-bought Alfredo sauce adds convenience, homemade Alfredo sauce can elevate the flavor of this dish even further. If you prefer homemade sauce, feel free to use your favorite recipe or whip up a batch using butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
  4. Can I omit the chicken to make this dish vegetarian? Certainly! If you prefer a vegetarian version of this pasta bake, you can simply omit the chicken or replace it with your favorite meat alternatives such as tofu, tempeh, or cooked chickpeas. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of protein options, making it easy to customize to your dietary preferences.
  5. How can I make this recipe gluten-free? To make this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake gluten-free, simply substitute gluten-free pasta for the rotini pasta and ensure that the Alfredo and garlic Parmesan sauces you use are gluten-free as well. Many brands offer gluten-free options for both pasta and sauce, making it easy to enjoy this delicious dish without gluten.

Conclusion:

With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and hearty ingredients, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or simply craving a cozy meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Plus, with minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it’s a hassle-free dinner option that you can rely on time and time again. So why wait? Whip up a batch tonight and indulge in this deliciously comforting dish!

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