Looking for a hearty, creamy chicken pasta bake that’s easy, cheesy, and packed with flavor? This Baked Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is your go-to solution for busy weeknights or weekend indulgence. Loaded with tender shredded chicken, gooey mozzarella, and a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, this pasta casserole is the kind of dish that disappears fast—and earns rave reviews every time.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake
-
Budget-friendly ingredients that feed a crowd
-
High-protein dinner option with comforting flavors
-
Perfect for meal prepping and leftovers
-
A kid-friendly favorite that adults devour too
-
Great choice for easy weeknight dinners or Sunday suppers
Ingredients Breakdown
Protein & Pasta Base:
-
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – Great for using up rotisserie or leftover chicken; adds protein and heartiness.
-
12 oz penne pasta – Holds the creamy sauce well and gives the perfect bite.
Creamy Cheese Sauce:
-
2 cups heavy cream – The rich base that makes the sauce ultra-luxurious.
-
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts smoothly and gives that stretchy, cheesy goodness.
-
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty depth to balance the mozzarella.
-
3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic warmth and flavor to the sauce.
Seasoning:
-
1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings classic Italian flair.
-
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential to bring all the flavors together.
Cooking & Finishing:
-
2 tbsp olive oil – Used for sautéing the garlic and starting the sauce.
-
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional) – A fresh, fragrant garnish for a pop of flavor and color.
Tips and Tricks
-
Shortcut: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.
-
Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter cream sauce.
-
Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.
-
Extra cheesy? Sprinkle some cheddar or provolone with the mozzarella for a cheese blend.
Variations and Customizations
-
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake: Add some broccoli florets for a veggie boost.
-
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake: Mix in buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles.
-
Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower pasta alternatives.
-
Meat Swap: Sub chicken for cooked ground turkey or sausage for a new twist.
Pairing Suggestions
This creamy casserole goes great with:
-
Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
-
Crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens
-
A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
-
Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts
Storage Instructions
-
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
-
Freezer: Freeze in a covered dish or freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
-
To Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave in individual portions.
Popular Questions
Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble everything in advance and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes to the cook time.
What type of chicken is best?
Shredded rotisserie, grilled, or poached chicken all work well. Just make sure it’s tender and well-seasoned.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely—rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli are excellent substitutes that hold sauce well.