Get ready to indulge in a delectable dish that combines the rich creaminess of chicken and pasta with the bold flavors of pesto. Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. This recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household, thanks to its irresistible blend of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy pesto sauce that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

Ingredients Breakdown: The Building Blocks of Flavor

To create this mouthwatering pasta bake, you’ll need a few key ingredients that work together seamlessly to produce a dish that’s both visually appealing and utterly delicious.

Olive Oil

Olive oil serves as the foundation, providing a gentle yet essential flavor and helping to sear the chicken to perfection. The high-quality oil also contributes to the overall richness of the dish.

Boneless Chicken Breasts

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the protein of choice, ensuring that each bite is tender and juicy. They cook quickly and easily absorb the flavors of the pesto and cream.

Salt and Pepper

A simple seasoning of salt and black pepper enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and brings balance to the dish.

Penne Pasta

Penne pasta is the ideal shape for this recipe, as its ridges and hollow center allow the creamy pesto sauce to cling to each noodle, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

Prepared Pesto

Whether you opt for a store-bought version or make your own homemade pesto, the vibrant flavors of basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese are the true stars of this dish, infusing each bite with a burst of Mediterranean flair.

Heavy Cream

The addition of heavy cream transforms the pesto into a luxuriously creamy sauce, adding a silky smooth texture that coats the pasta and chicken perfectly.

Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese

A combination of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese provides the perfect melty, cheesy topping, elevating the dish to new heights of indulgence.

Preparation: The Secret to Achieving Perfection

Cooking the Chicken

Begin by heating a skillet with the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring each bite is seasoned to perfection.

Mixing the Pasta

In a large bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, the seared chicken, the prepared pesto, and the heavy cream. Gently stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed and the pasta is coated in the creamy pesto sauce. Then, add half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, and mix well.

Baking to Perfection

Transfer the pesto chicken pasta mixture to a baking dish and top it with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving and Enjoying: Bringing the Dish to Life

Once the Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake has finished baking, let it cool for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to set. Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Pair it with a crisp salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

This comforting pasta bake is sure to become a new family favorite, as it’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and flavorful. Enjoy the leftovers as well, as they reheat beautifully and make for a delicious and easy lunch or dinner the next day.

Variations and Customizations: Tailoring the Dish to Your Taste

The beauty of Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is that it’s highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Consider these exciting variations:

Protein Swaps: Instead of chicken, you can use shrimp or Italian sausage for a different protein twist.
Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.
Veggie Add-ins: Incorporate fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers for a burst of color and extra nutrition.
Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dish a delightful kick.

Nutritional Information: Enjoying a Balanced Meal

A serving of Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake provides approximately 565 calories, 33 grams of fat, 34 grams of protein, and 46 grams of carbohydrates. While it’s a hearty and indulgent dish, there are a few ways to make it a bit healthier:

Use low-fat or reduced-fat mozzarella cheese to cut down on the overall fat content.
Opt for whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta to increase the fiber and nutrient profile.
Serve smaller portions and pair it with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables to balance out the meal.

Remember, moderation is key when enjoying this creamy and delicious pasta bake. Savor each bite and don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations to find your perfect version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

FAQ 1: What ingredients do I need for Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake?

To make Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake, you will need the following ingredients: cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini), cooked chicken (shredded or diced), pesto sauce, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, cherry tomatoes (optional), and cooked vegetables (like spinach or bell peppers, optional). You can also add seasonings like salt and pepper to taste.

FAQ 2: Can I make Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake ahead of time. You can assemble the dish, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook it, simply remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes, and then bake as directed.

FAQ 3: Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a convenient option and works well in Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake. Just make sure to choose a high-quality pesto for the best flavor. Alternatively, you can also make your own pesto using fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil if you prefer a homemade version.

FAQ 4: How do I store leftovers of Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake?

To store leftovers, allow the Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake it in the oven until warmed through. If you want to freeze it, make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

Conclusion

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is more than just a meal — it’s a warm, satisfying dish that brings comfort and bold flavor to the table. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, this pasta bake delivers every time with its creamy texture, herby pesto, and gooey cheese. With its easy prep, versatile options, and crowd-pleasing taste, this recipe is sure to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. Enjoy every comforting, cheesy bite!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Author: Time of Recipes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Get ready to indulge in a delectable dish that combines the rich creaminess of chicken and pasta with the bold flavors of pesto. Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

Salt and pepper, to taste

8 ounces penne pasta

1 cup prepared pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.

2. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, seared chicken, pesto, and heavy cream. Gently stir to coat the pasta.

4. Mix in half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

6. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or additional Parmesan, if desired.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.

Consider adding fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers for added nutrition.

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of the dish
Calories: 565
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 90mg