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**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Set aside.
2. **Cook the Pasta:**
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. **Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:**
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Then, stir in the heavy cream and bring it back to a simmer. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Combine the Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce:**
Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce, stirring to coat everything evenly. Ensure the chicken and pasta are well mixed with the creamy garlic parmesan sauce.
5. **Assemble the Bake:**
Transfer the chicken and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the top with extra grated parmesan cheese and some shredded mozzarella for that gooey, cheesy finish.
6. **Bake:**
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. For an extra golden crust, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
7. **Garnish and Serve:**
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake.
### Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
– **Cheesy Comfort:** The rich, creamy garlic parmesan sauce is the star of this dish. It coats the pasta and chicken perfectly, creating a satisfying, cheesy flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
– **Simple Ingredients:** This recipe uses basic pantry ingredients, so it’s easy to make without a trip to the store. Plus, you can swap in leftover or rotisserie chicken to save time.
– **Crowd-Pleaser:** The combination of pasta, chicken, and cheesy goodness makes this a great dish for family dinners, potlucks, or casual entertaining. It’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
– **Customizable:** You can easily adjust the flavors to suit your preferences. Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms, or make it spicier by adding more red pepper flakes. You can even swap out the chicken for turkey or ground beef for variety.
### The Verdict: The Ultimate Comfort Food
This **Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake** is the definition of comfort food. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy garlic parmesan sauce, it’s everything you crave in a hearty, satisfying meal. The crispy, cheesy top adds that perfect final touch, and the ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for a cheesy, comforting pasta dish that’s sure to become a family favorite, this garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake is your answer. It’s a delicious, flavorful, and filling meal that will leave everyone coming back for more.
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