Easy Garlic-Infused Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting, creamy, and downright delicious dish, then this Garlic-Infused Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole is exactly what you need. This recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful garlic, rich Parmesan, and perfectly cooked pasta into one irresistible casserole that’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. With its rich taste and easy preparation, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will soon become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: Ready in under an hour, this recipe simplifies dinner without sacrificing flavor.
• Creamy and Comforting: The-Parmesan cheese and infused garlic create a luscious sauce that wraps every bite in cozy warmth.
• Versatile Meal: Great for weeknights or potlucks, it easily feeds a crowd with minimal fuss.
• Balanced Flavors: The garlic infusion adds a depth of flavor that complements the savory chicken and cheesy pasta perfectly.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can tweak proteins, veggies, or cheese to tailor this casserole to your liking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in the Garlic-Infused Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole plays a crucial role, contributing texture, color, and that signature creamy flavor. They’re simple staples that come together beautifully, giving you a mouthwatering dish without complicated shopping.

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless for easy cooking and shredding.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic is what infuses the dish with flavorful aroma and taste.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan delivers that nutty, savory richness that makes the sauce shine.
• Pasta: Penne or rotini hold sauce well and provide ideal bite-sized noodles for this casserole.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a luxuriously creamy texture that coats every ingredient perfectly.
• Butter: Adds richness and carries the garlic flavors throughout the dish.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté garlic and chicken gently without overpowering flavors.
• Italian Seasoning: Adds a fragrant herb blend that complements Parmesan and enhances depth.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the rich components.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Brightens the dish with a fresh, green note when sprinkled on top.

Variations for Garlic-Infused Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole

The beauty of this casserole is how wonderfully adaptable it is. Whether accommodating dietary needs, boosting nutrition, or mixing up flavors, there are simple swaps and additions that make this dish your own.

• Using Turkey Instead of Chicken: Swap for a leaner protein without losing any heartiness.
• Adding Vegetables: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra color and nutrients.
• Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free or whole wheat pasta to suit dietary preferences.
• Cheese Alternatives: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a different but equally delicious flavor.
• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick in every bite.

How to Make Garlic-Infused Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Garlic Infusion

Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned to develop a beautiful garlic-infused base. Add chicken breasts seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, cooking until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from pan, let it rest, then shred into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the pasta until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, saving about a cup of reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later if needed.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in heavy cream and gradually whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to a smooth, creamy texture infused with the garlic flavor from before. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Add the shredded chicken back into the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together gently, ensuring every noodle is coated in the luscious Parmesan garlic sauce.

Step 5: Bake and Finish

Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish and sprinkle a little extra Parmesan and parsley on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic-Infused Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor compared to powders or pre-minced varieties.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Pasta should be al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Freshly Grate Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
• Reserve Pasta Water: A small amount of cooking water helps thin the sauce perfectly if it becomes too thick.
• Rest the Chicken: Letting cooked chicken rest before shredding keeps it juicy and tender.

How to Serve Garlic-Infused Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped basil adds a lovely freshness and color contrast, while a light drizzle of olive oil can enhance the richness.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy casserole with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to balance the richness and round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in ramekins or small casserole dishes for an elegant touch, or layer it with a crispy breadcrumb topping for added texture and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the casserole cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or dinners.

Freezing

Wrap tightly with foil or place the casserole in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions, stirring halfway for even heat.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Pre-cooked chicken works well and can save time. Just shred and add it during the sauce-mixing step.

What kind of pasta works best for this casserole?

Short, sturdy shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce beautifully without getting soggy.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut or cashew cream and use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives for a creamy dairy-free casserole.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, peas, or broccoli make great additions that boost nutrition and add great texture.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or mix in some hot sauce before baking for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic-Infused Parmesan Chicken Pasta Casserole is a brilliant combination of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky goodness that comes together quickly and satisfies every craving for comfort food. Whether cooking for your family or friends, this dish promises ease, flavor, and a happy crowd. Give it a try tonight—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!

Related Posts

• Why Hainanese Chicken Rice Is So Irresistible
• How to Make Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Easily
• Why Hot Honey Feta Chicken Is a Must-Try Meal

Print