Go Back
creamy-pesto-chicken-pasta-bake---easy-recipe_feature

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake: Easy Family Dinner Recipe

This creamy pesto chicken pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food that comes together in under an hour with tender chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and a cheesy golden crust. Perfect for busy weeknights, everything bakes together in one dish for easy cleanup.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 cup basil pesto
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add pesto, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir until well combined and heated through.
  4. Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce in a large mixing bowl. Transfer to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.

Notes

Make it ahead: Assemble the bake up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to baking time when cooking from cold. Customize the protein: You can substitute the chicken with turkey or use a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version. Add vegetables: Stir in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli florets for extra nutrition and color. Crispy topping: For extra crunch, mix breadcrumbs with the cheese topping before baking.