Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any medium-sized pasta shape with ridges or curves works well—penne, farfalle, or shells are excellent alternatives. Just be sure to adjust cooking time according to package directions and aim for that al dente texture.

I don't have garlic parmesan sauce. What can I substitute?

You can make your own by mixing 1 cup of cream or half-and-half with 4 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, and a tablespoon of butter. Heat gently until thickened. Alternatively, use additional Alfredo sauce and add extra minced garlic and Parmesan.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or steamed broccoli. You could also include plant-based protein substitutes if desired.

My sauce seems too thick/thin. How can I fix it?

For too thick, add a splash more pasta water or milk until you reach desired consistency. If too thin, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water and stir into the mixture before baking, or simply reduce the amount of pasta water added.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Description

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a deliciously creamy and cheesy comfort food dish. Tender rotini pasta is generously tossed with juicy chicken, rich Alfredo and garlic parmesan sauces, then baked to perfection with gooey mozzarella and sharp Parmesan. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or when you need a crowd-pleasing casserole, this easy pasta bake is sure to be a family favorite.

Ingredients

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Pasta & Chicken

1 pound rotini pasta, cooked and drained (reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water for casserole)
3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded

Sauces

2 (15-ounce) jars Alfredo sauce
1 cup garlic parmesan sauce

Cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Seasonings & Garnish

1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Other

1/2 cup pasta water, optional (as needed for sauciness)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Set both aside.
Mix the Casserole Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, diced or shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic parmesan sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Add salt and black pepper. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined. If the mixture seems dry, stir in about 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy, saucy consistency.
Assemble in Baking Dish
Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Using a spatula, spread it out evenly across the dish.
Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the pasta mixture to create a delicious cheesy topping.
Bake Covered
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the pasta bake is hot and bubbly throughout.
Broil for Golden Top (Optional)
If you prefer a crisper, golden topping, remove the foil and place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Rest and Garnish
Remove the casserole from the oven. Let it rest, covered with foil, for about 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

For extra flavor, use rotisserie chicken for convenience and taste.
You can substitute rotini pasta with penne or fusilli as desired.
Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Adjust the salt and pepper based on the saltiness of the sauces and cheese used.
Garlic parmesan sauce can be found in most grocery stores near the pasta sauces.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
Calories: 510
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 950mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 80mg