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 comes together in just one dish! Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and rich pesto cream sauce creates a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
What makes this recipe so special is how it transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The pesto infuses every bite with fresh basil flavor, while the creamy sauce and melted cheese create that irresistible comfort food texture we all crave. Plus, it’s a complete meal in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream and pesto until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
Top the pasta mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple fresh cucumber salad or some garlic roasted green beans.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
Choose the Right Pasta: Penne works perfectly because its ridges hold the sauce well, but you can also use rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Remember that the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so cook it al dente to avoid mushy results.
Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. A blend of mozzarella, provolone, and fontina creates amazing flavor.
Make it Ahead: You can assemble this dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
For more easy dinner inspiration, check out our quick baked chicken drumsticks or this comforting classic beef pot pie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! High-quality store-bought pesto works perfectly and saves time. Look for brands with fresh ingredients and vibrant green color.
How long does this keep in the refrigerator?
Leftovers will keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You could also add mushrooms or roasted vegetables for extra flavor.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method keeps the texture perfect.
This creamy pesto chicken pasta bake is truly a crowd-pleaser that combines the fresh flavors of basil pesto with comforting, cheesy goodness. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something special without the fuss. For more family-friendly pasta ideas, try our deviled egg pasta salad for your next gathering!
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake – Easy Family Dinner Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream and pesto until well combined.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Top the pasta mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots.
- Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
