Garlic-Infused Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Garlic-Infused Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole because it’s a simple one-pan meal that feels indulgent but isn’t too complicated to prepare. The garlic infuses the chicken and pasta with such an aromatic depth of flavor, and the parmesan adds that creamy richness that I can’t get enough of. What’s even better is that it’s a great dish to prepare ahead of time, and the leftovers are just as delicious! The crispy, cheesy top layer and the creamy interior make every bite a satisfying experience.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)

• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work great)

• 1 ½ cups grated parmesan cheese

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• ½ cup chicken broth

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
  (Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and cook them in the skillet until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside to cool. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and garlic-parmesan sauce. Mix everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.

5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top it with shredded mozzarella cheese.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

7. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. From start to finish, it takes about 45-50 minutes to prepare and bake, making it a great option for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: I can easily swap out the chicken for vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a vegetarian version of this casserole.

• Add Bacon: For an extra smoky, savory flavor, I sometimes add crumbled bacon to the casserole.

• Spicy Kick: If I want some heat, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic-parmesan sauce.

• Gluten-Free: I can use gluten-free pasta to make this casserole gluten-free without sacrificing the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Garlic-Infused Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, I recommend covering the casserole with foil and warming it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. I can also microwave individual portions if I’m in a rush.

FAQs

Can I use cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken?

Yes! I love using rotisserie chicken for a shortcut. Just shred it and mix it into the pasta and sauce—so easy and still delicious.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. I can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When I’m ready to bake, I simply preheat the oven and pop it in for the recommended time.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

I sometimes mix in other cheeses like cheddar or provolone if I want to switch things up. Just make sure the cheese melts well and adds a creamy texture.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes! I can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 2-3 months. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When I’m ready to eat it, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

How do I prevent the top from burning?

To avoid burning the top, I keep an eye on it while baking. If the cheese gets too brown before the casserole is fully heated, I can cover it loosely with foil and continue baking until done.

Conclusion

This Garlic-Infused Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole has quickly become one of my go-to comfort foods. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor from the garlic and parmesan, making it a meal that I can enjoy time and time again. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this dish never disappoints. Plus, it’s versatile enough to add in my favorite ingredients or make adjustments based on what I have on hand, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

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