Delicious Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe That Is Simple and Full of Flavor
A creamy and flavorful pasta bake featuring tender chicken, rich pesto, and gooey cheese, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound Dry Pasta (Penne, Ziti, or Rotini)
3 cups Cooked Chicken Breast, shredded or diced
2 cups Heavy Cream
½ cup Basil Pesto
1 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated
2 cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
½ teaspoon Salt
¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
Fresh Basil, chopped (for garnish) (Optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside
- In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant
- Pour in heavy cream, stir in pesto, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer until the sauce thickens slightly
- Remove from heat and add cooked chicken and drained pasta to the sauce. Toss until evenly coated
- Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Layer the remaining mixture on top
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brow
- Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped basil if desired
Notes
This recipe is versatile; try adding your favorite vegetables or proteins as substitutions.