Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Bake

Name: Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked pasta; 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Traditional Family Comfort

I love making this Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Bake when I'm in the mood for comfort food. The intoxicating aroma of garlic and herbs fills my kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a bite before it’s even done. Packed with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and bubbly cheese, this dish brings together delightful flavors that my family adores. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when hosting friends, and the best part is that it’s simple to whip up in just a few steps!

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:21:37.968Z

When I first tried this dish, I was instantly captivated by how well the garlic and fresh herbs complemented the chicken. It’s amazing how simple ingredients can create such depth of flavor. I like to sauté the garlic until it's golden before mixing it into the creamy sauce, as it really brings out its sweetness.

Another tip I’ve learned is to let the pasta bake for the last few minutes uncovered, which gives the cheese that irresistible golden crust. This just takes the overall experience to a whole new level, making it perfect for sharing at family gatherings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, savory flavors from garlic and fresh herbs
Creamy, cheesy sauce that pulls everything together
Easy to assemble and quick to bake for busy weeknights

The Role of Garlic and Herbs

Garlic is the star of this dish, infusing the creamy sauce with rich, aromatic flavors. When sautéing, cook the garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness; this usually takes about 1-2 minutes on medium heat. Fresh herbs like parsley not only brighten the flavor profile but also enhance the dish’s presentation, turning a simple pasta bake into something visually appealing.

In addition to the garlic, Italian seasoning plays a crucial role in harmonizing flavors. This blend typically includes herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, which lend a comforting earthiness. Feel free to adjust the ratio to suit your taste; using fresh herbs can elevate the dish further, but dried ones work beautifully for convenience.

Cheese Choices and Techniques

The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses is key to achieving a delightful texture in this bake. Mozzarella adds creaminess and stretch, while Parmesan provides a salty, sharp contrast. For an added depth of flavor, consider using a blend of cheeses, like adding sharp cheddar or fontina. Just make sure to shred the cheese yourself for the best melt.

When layering the cheese, ensure even coverage on the top for consistent browning. You should see an appetizing golden crust forming, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes in the oven. If you're looking for an extra crispy top, you might broil the dish for 1-2 minutes at the end, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for the Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Bake:

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked pasta
1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Make sure to use high-quality cheese for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Bake:

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and the cream sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is coated evenly.

Add Cheese

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to enhance flavors and nutrition.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Bake is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, covered tightly to keep moisture in. When ready to cook, simply preheat the oven and bake without needing to thaw; it may take an extra few minutes to heat through, so keep an eye on the cheese.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats well in the microwave or oven—just add a splash of cream or broth to prevent it from drying out. If using a microwave, heat in intervals, stirring in between for even warming.

Serving Suggestions

To complement this rich pasta bake, consider serving a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables. A light vinaigrette or lemon dressing can balance the creamy flavors beautifully. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also pairs well for those who want to soak up every last bit of the sauce.

For a more festive touch, sprinkle additional chopped fresh parsley or some red pepper flakes on top just before serving. This adds not only flavor but also a pop of color, making your dish even more inviting when entertaining guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover chicken works great and makes this recipe even quicker to prepare.

→ What type of pasta works best?

I recommend using penne or rigatoni, as they hold the sauce well.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it in advance and bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this pasta bake?

Definitely! You can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or add more vegetables.