Ingredients
Before we dive into the process, let’s gather everything you need. Here’s a quick list to keep things organized:
For the Main Dish:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly.
- Pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or any sturdy pasta that holds sauce well.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for the best flavor.
- Lemon: Juice and zest for that tangy kick.
- Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan for a creamy, melty topping.
- Cream: Heavy cream or half-and-half for a luscious texture.
- Broth: Chicken broth adds depth to the sauce.
- Butter and Olive Oil: For sautéing and extra richness.
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley
- Extra lemon zest
- Red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat)
Step-By-Step Guide to Making Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Cooking is so much easier when you’re organized. Here’s what to do:
- Cook the pasta: Boil it in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Dice the chicken: Cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Mince the garlic: Fresh garlic makes all the difference.
Taking a few minutes to prep will make the cooking process seamless.
2. Sauté the Chicken
Why cook the chicken first? Because it locks in the juices and gives it a golden, slightly crispy exterior.
- Heat a mix of butter and olive oil in a large skillet.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.
- Sauté the chicken pieces until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
3. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
This is where the magic happens. The sauce ties everything together with its creamy, zesty goodness.
- In the same skillet, melt a bit more butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Lower the heat and add the cream. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Optional Add-In: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
4. Combine Everything
Here’s the fun part—assembling your pasta bake!
- Toss the cooked pasta and chicken into the skillet with the sauce. Mix until everything is well-coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake to Perfection
The final step is baking it to golden, bubbly perfection.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the dish uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
Pro Tip: Switch to broil for the last 2–3 minutes if you want an extra crispy cheese topping.
Conclusion: Your Next Favorite Dish
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of flavors. It’s creamy, tangy, savory, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding your family, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to please.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! Don’t forget to savor every bite—because dishes like this are meant to be enjoyed.
