Description

A rich and creamy pasta bake loaded with tender chicken, garlic, parmesan, and mozzarella, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for weeknights or family dinners.

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

1 cup heavy cream

1 ½ cups grated parmesan cheese, divided

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add butter and let it melt, then whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened slightly.
Stir in 1 cup of parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
Fold in the cooked chicken and pasta, stirring gently to combine.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crispy finish.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling.
Let it rest for a few minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey as a time-saver.

Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for a nutritious boost.

Swap in different cheeses like provolone or Italian blends for variety.

Crushed red pepper or cayenne adds a spicy kick.

To lighten the dish, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 520
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 95mg