Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake 🧄🧀🍗
Ingredients:
For the Pasta Bake:
12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta 🍝
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced 🍗
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
½ cup chicken broth (optional, for a creamier sauce)
For the Topping:
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
¼ cup Parmesan cheese 🧀
1 tbsp melted butter
Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. 🍝
2️⃣ Make the sauce: In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. 🧄
3️⃣ Thicken the sauce: Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, then slowly whisk in the milk, heavy cream, and chicken broth (if using). Bring to a simmer. 🥄
4️⃣ Add seasoning & cheese: Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. 🧀
5️⃣ Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce, mixing well. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. 🍗
6️⃣ Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over the pasta. 🍞🧀
7️⃣ Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly. 🔥
8️⃣ Serve & Enjoy: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. 🌿🍽️
Prep Time: 15 min | Cooking Time: 25 min | Total Time: 40 min
Calories: 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
