Description
How to make a decadent creamy pesto chicken pasta bake with tender chicken, rich pesto sauce, and golden cheesy pasta that your family will adore.
Ingredients
Scale
- Main Components:
- 16 oz (1 lb) penne pasta
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Flavor Builders:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Seasonings & Spices:
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Finishing & Topping:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 cup extra shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta & Chicken: Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain well. In a large skillet, brown diced chicken in olive oil, then remove. Sauté diced yellow onion until softened, then add minced garlic for one minute until fragrant.
- Simmer Sauce: Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Stir in heavy cream, basil pesto, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Simmer gently until the sauce slightly thickens, creating a rich base for your Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce. Add the drained penne pasta, tossing everything together thoroughly to coat evenly. Ensure every piece of pasta and chicken is deliciously enveloped in the sauce.
- Assemble Bake: Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. This step makes the foundation for a truly golden and gooey Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake.
- Bake Pasta: Bake this delightful Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden brown. For extra color, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish & Serve: Let the Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake rest for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish generously with fresh chopped basil and extra shredded mozzarella cheese. Serve warm for a comforting, satisfying meal.
Notes
Rest the bake for 5 minutes after baking to prevent it from falling apart when serving, ensuring clean portions.
Store leftover bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days; reheat with a splash of broth or cream.
Feel free to swap penne for rotini, ziti, or cavatappi; just ensure you cook any pasta until al dente.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil. It pairs perfectly with a crisp side salad or warm garlic bread.
Prepare pasta and sauce components up to a day ahead; keep separate, then assemble and bake just before serving.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten, Tree Nuts