Name: Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta, cooked al dente and drained; 3 cups cooked shredded chicken; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 6 oz cream cheese, softened; 1½ cups heavy cream; 1¼ cups grated Parmesan cheese, divided; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley, for garnish

It all started one winter afternoon when I needed something warm and hearty but didn’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. I remembered the way my grandmother used to fill the house with the smell of roasted garlic and golden cheese, and that’s when this Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti was born. I didn’t have buttermilk or a roasting bird, but I did have cooked chicken, pasta, and a love for bold, garlicky flavor.

The result? A cheesy, creamy, oven-baked dish that hugs every bite of ziti in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s a true comfort recipe with just the right amount of crunch on top and all the creamy coziness inside. This dish has become a staple for chilly nights, movie marathons, and any time when only comfort food will do.

If you’re craving something creamy and satisfying that uses everyday ingredients, this recipe delivers flavor in spades and is sure to earn a regular spot in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti

Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti hits that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and comforting, all without taking hours to make. Here’s why you’ll come back to this recipe again and again:

It’s quick and simple, ready in under an hour from start to finish
The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce clings to every piece of pasta for maximum flavor
It uses everyday pantry and fridge staples
It’s the perfect way to use up leftover or rotisserie chicken
Makes a large batch, perfect for meal prep, freezing, or feeding a crowd

Whether you’re a fan of garlic parmesan chicken or just looking for easy chicken pasta recipes, this dish checks all the boxes for a family-friendly weeknight dinner.

Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti Ingredients

Before you dive in, make sure you have everything you need. This recipe uses real ingredients that turn into a creamy, cheesy garlic chicken pasta that’s perfect from the first bite to the last.

12 oz ziti pasta, cooked al dente and drained
3 cups cooked shredded chicken (leftover or rotisserie)
4 tablespoons olive oil (for garlic and sautéing)
6 garlic cloves, finely minced
6 oz cream cheese, softened
1½ cups heavy cream
1¼ cups grated Parmesan cheese, divided
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish

For another one-skillet favorite with bold garlicky flavor, check out this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, a 40-minute dinner perfect for busy weeknights.

How to Make Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti

This recipe is simple, satisfying, and layered with creamy flavors that develop beautifully in the oven. Follow these five steps to pasta perfection.

Cook the ziti
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook just until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Make the garlic Parmesan sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Pour in heavy cream and 1 cup Parmesan, stirring until combined.
Combine the chicken and pasta
Stir the shredded chicken and Italian seasoning into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Fold in the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated.
Layer and top with cheese
Transfer everything to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and remaining ¼ cup Parmesan.
Bake until bubbly
Bake uncovered at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and the sides are bubbling. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

If creamy comfort is your thing, you might also love this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup that turns pantry staples into a warm, cozy bowl.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti

This rich, creamy garlic chicken pasta shines with simple sides that balance out the indulgent main dish.

Fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette or Caesar dressing adds crisp contrast
Roasted broccoli or asparagus makes a colorful, healthy pairing
Garlic bread or toasted sourdough is perfect for scooping up extra sauce
Grilled zucchini or a warm tomato basil salad rounds out the meal
Serve directly in the baking dish or portion into shallow bowls and top with extra fresh parsley and Parmesan

If you’re into hearty one-dish meals, this One Pan Chicken and Rice Bake is another great choice for easy, filling dinners.

Variations and Customization Ideas for Chicken Parmesan Pasta

This dish is endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re working with what’s in the fridge or catering to different tastes, here are some great ways to switch it up:

Swap the protein: Use cooked turkey or grilled chicken breast
Add veggies: Stir in spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes before baking
Spice it up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic oil
Use another pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or even shells work well
Go low-carb: Replace the pasta with steamed cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles

Looking for more dreamy, creamy chicken dinners? You’ll love the rich flavors in this Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot, a slow-cooked favorite with big flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti

Leftovers reheat beautifully and taste just as delicious the next day. Here’s how to keep that creamy texture intact:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
Reheat in oven: Cover and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until warmed through
Reheat in microwave: Heat individual servings with a splash of milk, covered loosely, in 60-second bursts
Freezing tip: If freezing, undercook the pasta slightly and avoid topping with cheese until reheating day
Pro move: Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese and parsley just before serving to revive the flavor

Pro Tips for Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti Success

A few helpful tricks make this dish foolproof, even on busy nights.

Cook pasta to al dente so it doesn’t get mushy in the oven
Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and smoothest sauce
Don’t rush the garlic: Let it gently sizzle in oil without browning
Let the baked dish rest before serving for cleaner slices and more set texture
Taste and season before baking to balance richness with a bit of salt and brightness

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti

Even the simplest recipes have a few potential pitfalls. Here’s how to dodge the most common ones.

Overcooking the pasta: Go for just tender so it finishes in the oven
Skipping fresh garlic: Pre-minced garlic loses flavor quickly
Using pre-shredded cheese: It contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting
Forgetting to season the sauce: Taste it before baking, especially after adding cheese
Adding cold cream cheese: Let it soften or cut into chunks so it melts smoothly

Final Thoughts on Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti

This creamy, cheesy chicken pasta casserole is the kind of meal you’ll want to keep in regular rotation. It’s hearty, flavorful, and comes together easily with ingredients you likely already have. Whether it’s for family dinner, weekend meal prep, or a comforting dish for friends, Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti is one recipe that never disappoints.

Be sure to pin this recipe and share it with your fellow garlic lovers, it’s one of those dishes people will be asking you to make again and again.

FAQs About Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti

Can I use pre-cooked chicken in Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti?

Yes, this recipe works beautifully with rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken. Just shred it and stir it into the sauce before baking.

What type of pasta works best for Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti?

Ziti holds the sauce well, but you can also use penne, rigatoni, or even rotini. Avoid thin pasta like spaghetti.

Can I make Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti in a pressure cooker?

You can cook the chicken and sauce in a pressure cooker, but the final bake for melted cheese and texture is best done in the oven.

What cheeses melt best in creamy chicken pasta recipes?

Freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan give the creamiest texture and best flavor. Avoid pre-shredded blends that include starch.

How do I store and reheat Garlic Chicken Parmesan Ziti without drying it out?

Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating. Cover tightly in the oven or use a damp paper towel in the microwave to keep moisture in.