A comforting and indulgent casserole featuring tender rotini pasta and succulent chicken pieces enveloped in a rich blend of Alfredo and garlic Parmesan sauces, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a delightful combination of creamy and cheesy flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is everything you could want in a comforting, easy-to-make dinner. It's packed with rich, creamy Alfredo and garlic Parmesan flavors, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. The combination of tender rotini pasta, juicy chicken, and gooey melted cheese creates a mouthwatering meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It's the perfect casserole to make for a busy weeknight or to impress guests at your next gathering.

Ingredients

1 pound rotini pasta
3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
2 jars (15 ounces each) Alfredo sauce
1 cup garlic Parmesan sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced or shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic Parmesan sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the mixture appears too thick, add about ½ cup of the reserved pasta water to achieve a creamier consistency.
Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the dish is bubbly.
Optional Broil
For a golden, crispy top, remove the foil and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Approximate Calories per Serving: 520 kcal

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can add some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the mix for added texture and flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or mix in some jalapeños.
Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a twist on the classic mozzarella and Parmesan blend.
Make it Gluten-Free: Swap out the rotini pasta for a gluten-free version to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta bake in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings, but the oven will help retain the crispy top.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare this pasta bake a day in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, preheat your oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.

Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe! Just shred or chop it up and mix it in with the pasta and sauce.

What type of pasta works best?

Rotini is great for this dish because its spiral shape holds the sauce well, but you can also use penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni if you prefer.

Can I freeze this pasta bake?

Yes, you can freeze the prepared casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, add a bit more of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency, or add an extra sprinkle of cheese to thicken it up.

Can I make this without garlic Parmesan sauce?

Yes, you can substitute with additional Alfredo sauce or use a homemade garlic Parmesan mixture by combining garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a bit of heavy cream.

Is there a way to make this lighter?

You can lighten up the dish by using a low-fat Alfredo sauce and reducing the amount of cheese. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or a plant-based alternative.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out in the oven?

Be sure to cover the baking dish with aluminum foil for the majority of the cooking time to keep the moisture in. You can remove the foil for the last few minutes to get the crispy, golden top.

Can I add more cheese to the casserole?

Absolutely! You can sprinkle more mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking for extra cheesiness.

Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce?

Yes, homemade Alfredo sauce can be used instead of jarred sauce for a more personalized touch. Just make sure to adjust the quantities for the right consistency.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a delicious, cheesy, and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Whether you're serving it for a weeknight dinner or preparing it for a special occasion, this recipe delivers all the creamy comfort and flavor you're looking for. Easy to make and full of flavor, it's the perfect addition to any dinner rotation. Enjoy!