Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup spinach (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Meal Inspirations

I love whipping up this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake when I want something comforting yet easy to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it a crowd-pleaser in my home. It’s the ultimate dish for busy weeknights and comes together in a snap, using simple ingredients that I often have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies if I want to amp up the nutritional value. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to make it regularly!

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-02-27T23:29:35.482Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was looking for a cozy meal that required minimal effort but still packed a flavorful punch. The combination of garlic, cream, and chicken blends together beautifully, and I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I remember thinking I could add some spinach for that extra nutritional boost, and it turned out to be an excellent choice!

The key to making this dish succeed is not to overcook the pasta. Since it will bake in the oven later, a few minutes less in boiling water preserves just the right texture. I’ve also found that using rotisserie chicken can cut down on prep time significantly, making this a go-to in my household.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy garlic sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta
Versatile enough to mix in your favorite veggies
Perfect for serving a crowd or meal prepping for the week

A Closer Look at the Key Ingredients

The choice of pasta can greatly influence the texture of your Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake. Penne's tubular shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful. If you're looking for a different texture, you can easily substitute rigatoni or fusilli. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to check for al dente doneness as per package instructions.

Heavy cream is essential for the luxurious texture of the sauce, giving it a rich mouthfeel without overpowering the dish. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead, though the sauce may be slightly less indulgent. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, consider using a creamy nut milk or coconut cream, but be aware that this will alter the flavor profile significantly.

Baking Tips for a Perfect Finish

When transferring the pasta mixture to the baking dish, make sure to evenly distribute it to ensure uniform cooking. A greased 9x13 inch dish is ideal since it allows for even heating, helping the edges to crisp while keeping the center creamy. If you prefer a golden, crisp topping, consider adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs or additional Parmesan cheese on top before baking.

Baking at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes usually achieves that golden-brown bubbling perfection. Keep an eye on the dish during the latter part of the bake; if the top isn't browning as desired, a quick broil for 1-2 minutes at the end can surface that much-coveted crispy texture. Just make sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking!

Main Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup spinach (optional)

Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy pasta bake!

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions, but reduce cooking time by 2 minutes so it remains al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, stirring until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and creamy sauce. If using spinach, fold it in at this stage until just wilted. Mix well.

Bake the Dish

Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy garlic chicken pasta bake!

Now you can enjoy your delicious dish!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or using a different type of cheese for variation.

Creating Variations

Feel free to add a variety of vegetables to this pasta bake for an extra nutritional boost. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini roast beautifully alongside the chicken and meld well with the creamy sauce. Aim for about 2 cups total of your chosen veggies, chopping them into bite-sized pieces. Sauté them first for about 5-7 minutes to ensure they soften and integrate well into the dish.

For a spicy twist, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes into the creamy sauce, or for an earthy flavor, try adding some chopped sun-dried tomatoes. These variations will not only shift the flavor profile but also keep the meal exciting every time you prepare it.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake is a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can prepare the entire recipe, chill it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, and bake it right before serving. Just remember to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge, as it will take longer to heat through completely.

For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled, uncooked dish. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and it will last in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as instructed until warmed through. Freezing will alter the creaminess slightly, but it still makes for a convenient meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer will work well, but cooking times may vary.

→ How can I make this recipe healthier?

Substituting half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt and adding more vegetables can enhance its nutritional profile.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I serve it with?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this pasta bake.