Description

A comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole combining creamy pasta, tender chicken, and the irresistible flavor of garlic and Parmesan, topped with golden breadcrumbs.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz penne or rigatoni, cooked al dente
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup low sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to create a roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking, then add the heavy cream. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Fold the cooked pasta and shredded chicken into the sauce until everything is evenly coated.
In a small mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and olive oil. Mix until the crumbs are lightly coated.
Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, followed by the breadcrumb mixture.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Let the pasta bake cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

[‘Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente pasta is key.’, ‘Use fresh garlic for robust flavor.’, ‘Taste and adjust seasoning in the sauce before combining with the pasta.’, ‘Grate your own Parmesan for a smoother texture.’, ‘Set a timer to avoid overbaking.’]

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 480
Fat: 22
Carbohydrates: 40
Protein: 27

Keywords: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake, chicken pasta bake, comfort food, casserole recipe, easy dinner recipe