Introduction:
Looking for a meal that combines the comforting flavors of tender chicken, savory garlic, and creamy Parmesan cheese? Look no further than this irresistible Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake recipe. This hearty dish is not only easy to make but also perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying as a cozy family dinner. Packed with protein, carbohydrates, and plenty of cheesy goodness, this pasta bake will surely become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cups of marinara sauce
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the marinara sauce, heavy cream, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the sauce is heated through and the cheese is melted and well combined.
- Add the cooked pasta and cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake!