This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is a weeknight hero. It’s cheesy, comforting, and packed with basil pesto flavor that tastes better than takeout.
The standout here is the creamy pesto sauce—just pesto plus a little cream and cheese to make it cling to every noodle. Bake it until bubbly and golden, and you’ve got a dinner everyone asks for again.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
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- One-pan cozy vibes: Creamy, cheesy, baked comfort.
- Better than restaurant: Big pesto flavor without the price tag.
- Great for meal prep: Leftovers are even better the next day.
- Family-friendly: Mild, cheesy, and filling.
- Easy weeknight dinner: Simple steps and forgiving.
Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
- Pasta (12 ounces, penne or rotini): Holds sauce well.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing chicken pieces.
- Boneless chicken cutlets (1 1/2 pounds, cut into pieces): Tender protein (swap with turkey cutlets).
- Salt and black pepper: Seasoning base.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Boosts pesto flavor.
- Basil pesto (1/2 cup): Main flavor.
- Heavy cream (3/4 cup): Makes sauce creamy (use half-and-half for lighter).
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds savory depth.
- Shredded mozzarella (2 cups): Melty topping.
- Baby spinach (2 cups, optional): Veggie boost.
- Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Brightens the sauce.
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe (Step-by-Step)
- 1. Boil pasta until just al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than the box says. Drain.
- 2. Sauté chicken pieces in olive oil over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes, until lightly golden. Season.
- 3. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds. Lower heat.
- 4. Whisk in pesto and cream until smooth. Stir in Parmesan and lemon. Fold in spinach if using.
- 5. Combine pasta with sauce and chicken in a greased 9×13-inch dish.
- 6. Top with mozzarella and bake at 375°F for 18–22 minutes, until bubbly. Broil 1–2 minutes if you want.
- 7. Rest 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
- Undercook pasta slightly: It finishes in the oven.
- Keep sauce heat gentle: Creamy sauces stay smooth.
- Add a splash of pasta water: If sauce looks too thick.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add veggies: Broccoli florets, peas, or roasted peppers.
- Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper.
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for cooked lentils.
Storing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store for 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm with a splash of cream to keep it saucy.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Simple green salad
- Roasted green beans
- Dinner rolls
Reader Review: “This pesto pasta bake is now my go-to. The sauce is so creamy and the leftovers are perfect!”
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Dinner, Pasta & Noodles
Method: Stovetop + Baked
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Diet: —