Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake – Easy Family Dinner Recipe
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake – Easy Family Dinner Recipe
This creamy pesto chicken pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food that brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and rich basil pesto sauce in one delicious baked dish. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying that the whole family will love. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right from your own oven.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 12 oz penne pasta or your favorite pasta shape
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, pesto, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until everything is well coated.
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Expert Tips
For the best results, use high-quality pesto or make your own fresh basil pesto. The flavor will be significantly brighter and more authentic. If you’re looking for other creamy pasta dishes, try our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for another quick dinner option.
You can prepare this dish ahead of time by assembling everything in the baking dish, covering with plastic wrap, and refrigerating for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, though the sauce may be slightly less rich. If you enjoy baked pasta dishes, our Monterey Chicken Spaghetti offers another delicious cheesy option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely! This recipe works well with cooked shredded chicken, or you could try it with turkey. For another poultry option that works beautifully in pasta dishes, check out our Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Pasta.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze this pasta bake? Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake – Easy Family Dinner Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, pesto, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until everything is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
