There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta bake, especially when it’s infused with the bright flavors of fresh pesto and tender chicken. This creamy pesto chicken pasta bake is exactly that kind of dish — easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any night of the week.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly recipe that brings together creamy sauce, herby pesto, and hearty chicken, you’re going to love this one. Plus, it’s a great way to elevate simple ingredients into a satisfying meal that feels special but doesn’t take all day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture with bright pesto flavor
- Simple ingredients you can find at any grocery store
- Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd
- One-dish dinner with minimal cleanup
- Adaptable with your favorite pasta shapes or veggies
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy pesto chicken pasta bake. It comes together with pantry staples and fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- 12 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3/4 cup prepared basil pesto
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 520 per serving
How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake | Easy Recipe
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking and stir until fragrant.
- Lower the heat to medium and stir in the pesto and heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy pesto chicken mixture in the skillet. Stir in 3/4 cup of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese until evenly mixed.
- Transfer everything into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and some extra Parmesan cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and lightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Results
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melt.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente holds up better during baking.
- Feel free to add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and color.
- If you prefer, swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it will be less rich.
- Let the bake rest after cooking to help it set and make serving easier.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven until heated through.
This creamy pesto chicken pasta bake also freezes well. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly and saves time. Choose a high-quality brand or make your own if you prefer a fresher taste.
What pasta is best for a chicken pasta bake?
Pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or ziti work best because their tubes and ridges hold onto the creamy sauce well during baking.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers to keep it hearty and flavorful.
How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?
Be sure to combine the pasta with plenty of sauce before baking, and cover loosely with foil if baking longer than 20 minutes to keep moisture locked in.
