Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Heavy Cream Chicken Pasta Bake is a wonderful dish that combines comfort and flavor. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The rich and creamy sauce, paired with tender chicken and pasta, will leave everyone wanting more. Plus, it’s easy to make, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Heavy Cream Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
- 1 lb penne pasta (Cook to al dente in salted water.)
- 3 cooked, cubed chicken (Use about 3 cups cooked chicken pieces.)
- 4 garlic (Minced cloves.)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1.5 cups grated parmesan cheese (Grated for melting and thickening.)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (For topping; cover evenly for browning.)
- Salt and pepper (To taste, for seasoning before serving.)
Directions:
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Cook Pasta and Prepare Oven: Start by cooking the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water until it is al dente. While the pasta cooks, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Make the Garlic Cream Sauce: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese while mixing until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Assemble and Bake: In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, cubed chicken, and garlic cream sauce. Mix everything well to coat the pasta and chicken evenly. Top the mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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Finish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. It will be hot! Enjoy your creamy bake with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Heavy Cream Chicken Pasta Bake
Serve this delicious pasta bake hot as a main dish. It goes wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top for a lovely touch.
How to Store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Heavy Cream Chicken Pasta Bake
To store leftovers, let the pasta bake cool completely. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Freeze it in a suitable container, and it should last for about 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Heavy Cream Chicken Pasta Bake
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente is best since it will continue cooking in the oven.
- You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut.
- For extra flavor, add some dried Italian herbs or fresh spinach to the mixture.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even mushrooms. For a spicy kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can substitute penne with any pasta you enjoy, like fusilli or farfalle.
Q: How can I make it lighter?
A: You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake it before serving.
Enjoy making this creamy, comforting pasta dish that the whole family will love!
