Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

If you love creamy, cheesy pasta dishes, this recipe will become a regular in your rotation. It’s easy to make, comforting, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. The blend of Alfredo and garlic parmesan sauces creates an irresistibly rich flavor, while the melted mozzarella and Parmesan form a golden, bubbly top layer that’s pure perfection. Best of all, it comes together with minimal prep and simple ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound rotini pasta, cooked and drained (save 1 cup of cooking water for casserole)
3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
2 (15 ounce) jars Alfredo sauce
1 cup garlic parmesan sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic parmesan sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well. If needed, add ½ cup pasta water for extra sauciness.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden, crispy top, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Let cool for 5 minutes, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: Approximately 421 kcal per serving

Variations

Add vegetables: Mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for extra color and nutrition.
Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a little heat.
Different pasta: Substitute rotini with penne, rigatoni, or shells for a fun texture change.
Bacon lovers: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the top before baking for smoky flavor.
Extra cheesy: Mix in a handful of shredded cheddar or provolone for even more cheesy goodness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain the creamy texture. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce?

Yes! Homemade Alfredo sauce will make this dish even more flavorful. Just replace the jarred sauce with your own creamy version.

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Shredded rotisserie chicken is quick and easy, but any cooked chicken breast or thigh meat works perfectly.

Can I make this recipe without chicken?

Absolutely. You can omit the chicken and substitute with vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version.

How do I keep the pasta from drying out?

Reserve some pasta water and add it to the mixture before baking. It helps maintain creaminess.

Can I freeze this pasta bake?

Yes, this bake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven after thawing overnight.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your sauces are gluten-free to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.

What’s the best cheese combination for extra flavor?

Try mixing mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a rich, melty blend.

Can I make this lighter?

Use light Alfredo sauce, reduced-fat cheese, and whole-grain pasta for a healthier twist.

What side dishes go well with this pasta bake?

Pair it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and satisfying. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that works for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings. With its rich sauce and gooey cheese topping, this dish is sure to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.