Easy and Delicious Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting oven-baked dish made with tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This recipe is simple to prepare, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep.
Origin of the Recipe
Baked pasta dishes have long been a staple in home kitchens, combining affordability, convenience, and comfort. Cheesy chicken pasta bakes became especially popular as families looked for one-dish meals that could be prepared ahead of time and baked when needed. This modern version focuses on creamy textures, balanced seasoning, and generous cheese, making it a reliable favorite across many households.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream or milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Optional: chopped parsley or basil for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Skillet or saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil or butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add cream, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir and simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce, mixing until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Best Results
- Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta before baking to keep it from becoming mushy.
- Add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy chicken pasta bake with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Easy and Delicious Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Comforting, filling, and simple to prepare, it’s a dependable dinner option that brings warmth and flavor to the table every time.
Easy and Delicious Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil or butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
- Add the cream, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir and simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce, mixing until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or basil if desired.
Notes