There is nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a creamy, cheesy bake after a long day, and this Leftover Chicken Pasta Bake with Creamy Parmesan Mozzarella Sauce Recipe delivers exactly that. It transforms everyday leftover chicken and simple pantry staples into a luscious, flavorful dish that feels both indulgent and homey. Combining tender rotini pasta with a velvety sauce packed with Parmesan and mozzarella, each bite is a celebration of texture and taste that’s sure to satisfy your craving for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is beautifully straightforward, relying on a handful of key ingredients that work in perfect harmony to create a rich and inviting bake. Each component adds its own special touch, whether it’s the savory depth of chicken broth or the creamy melt of cheese.
- Cooked chicken (2 cups): Leftover chicken makes this dish easy and adds savory protein.
- Rotini pasta (8 oz): Twist-shaped pasta holds onto the sauce wonderfully, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Provides richness and helps create the base roux for the sauce.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Adds an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce into the perfect creamy consistency.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds depth and enhances the chicken flavor.
- Milk (1 cup): Creates a luscious sauce that binds the dish together.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Delivers nutty, savory notes and a touch of saltiness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup): Melts beautifully for that gooey, stretchy cheese factor.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Season gently to enhance flavors without overpowering.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a bright, fresh finish and a pop of green color.
How to Make Leftover Chicken Pasta Bake with Creamy Parmesan Mozzarella Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your rotini pasta and cook until just al dente, which means it still has a slight bite to it. This is important because the pasta will cook further in the sauce and bake without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to wait for the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Start the Roux
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and toss in the minced garlic. Cook the garlic gently for about one minute until it’s fragrant but not browned—this subtle step infuses the base of your sauce with a lovely aromatic flavor that is simply irresistible.
Step 3: Make the Thickening Roux
Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk it together with the butter and garlic to form a roux. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps, until it turns slightly golden. This step is crucial as the roux acts as the thickening agent for your creamy sauce.
Step 4: Add the Liquids and Thicken the Sauce
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly so the sauce remains smooth. Continue cooking for 3 to 5 minutes as it thickens into a luscious, velvety sauce. This is where the magic happens—you’re essentially creating the heart of the sauce that will coat every noodle perfectly.
Step 5: Incorporate Chicken and Cheeses
Now it’s time to add your cooked chicken along with the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella. Stir well until the cheeses melt fully into the sauce, making it creamy, cheesy, and utterly delightful. This combination gives the bake its signature richness and comforting flavor profile.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Introduce the cooked rotini back into your skillet and toss everything together so the pasta is evenly coated with that decadent sauce. Mixing thoroughly ensures every twist and turn of the pasta carries that signature creamy bite we all love in a great bake.
Step 7: Season and Finish
To round out the flavors, season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. For a final touch of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving. This little garnish elevates the dish, making it as visually inviting as it is delicious.
How to Serve Leftover Chicken Pasta Bake with Creamy Parmesan Mozzarella Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
While the chopped parsley is a classic choice, feel free to add a little extra flair with red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the creamy richness. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan just before serving can never go wrong!
Side Dishes
This pasta bake is hearty enough to stand on its own, but serving it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables creates a lovely contrast in textures and adds freshness to balance the creaminess. Garlic bread is also a fantastic companion if you want to indulge in a carb-lover’s dream.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, consider baking the entire dish in an attractive casserole dish and serving it family-style from the oven. Alternatively, scoop portions into individual ramekins for a personalized touch that feels extra cozy and inviting. Either way, the dish shines beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, let any leftovers cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, this chicken pasta bake keeps nicely for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or second-night dinners that taste just as good.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze leftovers, which makes this recipe even more versatile. Portion the bake into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for that comforting creamy goodness.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can cover it with foil to prevent drying out, then uncover for the last few minutes to refresh the melted cheese on top. Alternatively, a microwave works well for a quick reheating, just be sure to stir occasionally for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this bake?
Absolutely! While rotini is perfect for holding onto the sauce, penne, fusilli, or even shell pasta work wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure to cook your pasta al dente to avoid mushiness later.
What kind of leftover chicken is best?
Any cooked chicken works here, whether roasted, grilled, or even leftover from your favorite takeaway. Shredded or diced chicken both melt beautifully into the sauce, making great use of whatever you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap out the butter for olive oil and use dairy-free milk and vegan cheese alternatives. The sauce’s creamy texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious and comforting.
Can I add vegetables to this pasta bake?
Definitely! Adding steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach can introduce fresh flavor and extra nutrition. Stir them in along with the chicken and cheese for a vibrant twist.
Do I need to bake the dish after mixing it all together?
This recipe is designed to be enjoyed straight from the skillet once combined and seasoned, but if you prefer a baked top or a bit more melded flavor, feel free to transfer to a casserole dish and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a way to transform simple leftovers into something truly special, the Leftover Chicken Pasta Bake with Creamy Parmesan Mozzarella Sauce Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s comforting, easy to prepare, and packed with all the flavors that make comfort food so memorable. Give it a try — you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this creamy, cheesy, delicious bake!
Print
Leftover Chicken Pasta Bake with Creamy Parmesan Mozzarella Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This delicious Leftover Chicken Dinner transforms cooked chicken and rotini pasta into a creamy, cheesy skillet meal. With a simple homemade garlic butter sauce thickened with flour and enriched with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, it’s a quick and comforting dinner perfect for using up leftovers.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on package instructions. Drain well and set aside to avoid overcooking.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, to release its flavor.
- Make the Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour with the melted butter and garlic, whisking constantly to form a smooth paste. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste and start thickening.
- Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Cheeses: Stir in the cooked chicken, grated Parmesan, and shredded mozzarella cheeses. Mix continuously until the cheeses fully melt and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy chicken cheese sauce.
- Season and Serve: Season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top if desired, then serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use rotini or any short pasta shape that holds sauce well.
- Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness when mixed into sauce.
- Substitute milk with half and half or cream for a richer sauce.
- Leftover cooked chicken can be shredded or diced as preferred.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes during garlic sauté.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
