🧀 Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie works great)

• 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 3 cups whole milk (or half milk, half heavy cream for richness)

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta

   • Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make Garlic Parmesan Sauce

   • In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

   • Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).

   • Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.

   • Slowly whisk in milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth.

   • Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

   • Simmer 3–5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.

   • Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

3. Assemble the Bake

   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, chicken, half the mozzarella, and sauce.

   • Transfer mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish.

   • Top with remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese.

4. Bake

   • Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

5. Garnish & Serve

   • Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.