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 under an hour! Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal that everyone will love. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s both elegant and incredibly easy to make.
If you’re looking for more delicious pasta dinners, try our Ultimate Comfort Chicken Pasta Recipe with Creamy Ranch Sauce for another family favorite option.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, basil pesto, and heavy cream. Stir until everything is well coated.
Step 4: Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Step 5: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots. For extra browning, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
This recipe pairs beautifully with our Garlic Butter Green Beans with Mushrooms for a complete meal.
Expert Tips
- For extra flavor, use homemade pesto if you have time
- Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra vegetables
- Make it ahead – assemble the bake and refrigerate until ready to cook
- Use rotisserie chicken for even faster preparation
- Freeze leftovers in individual portions for easy meals later
If you enjoy creamy pasta dishes, you’ll love our Creamy Salmon Pasta Recipe for another quick dinner option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Penne works well because it holds the sauce, but you can use rigatoni, fusilli, or any short pasta shape.
How long does this keep in the refrigerator?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
What can I serve with this pasta bake?
It’s delicious with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. For another great side dish option, try our Best Broccoli Salad Recipe.
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. Drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, basil pesto, and heavy cream. Stir until everything is well coated.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots. For extra browning, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
