Description
A rich and comforting pasta bake featuring tender chicken, creamy garlic parmesan sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.
- Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg