Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

why make this recipe

This dish gives you creamy pasta, green pesto, and tender chicken in one pan. It cooks well for a family dinner. It fills the house with a nice smell. It also works well for leftovers.

introduction

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake blends chicken, pasta, pesto, and cheese into a warm dish. It is simple to cook and feeds several people. If you like baked pasta dishes, also try this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake for a different creamy taste.

how to make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

1. Preheat the oven and cook the pasta first so it is ready.
2. Sear the chicken in a skillet until golden, then slice it.
3. Sauté garlic and spinach in the same pan to add good flavor.
4. Mix the pasta, chicken, spinach, pesto, creams, and cheeses in a large bowl.
5. Put the mix in a baking dish, add the top cheese, and bake until bubbly and brown.
   For another baked chicken pasta idea with a different spice, look at the cajun cream cheese chicken pasta bake recipe.

Ingredients :

• 2 Chicken breasts, medium boneless skinless
• 3 1/2 oz Baby spinach
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 1/2 cup Basil pesto, store bought or homemade
• 10 1/2 oz Penne or rigatoni pasta
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 tbsp Butter, unsalted
• 7/8 cup Heavy cream
• 1 cup Mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup Parmesan, grated
• 1/2 cup Whole milk

Directions :

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides. Remove and slice them.
5. In the skillet, add baby spinach and cook until wilted.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sliced chicken, spinach, pesto, heavy cream, milk, salt, and pepper.
7. Mix in mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
9. Top with remaining Parmesan cheese.
10. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
11. Serve warm.

how to serve Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

Serve this dish hot from the oven. Garnish with a little extra Parmesan or fresh basil if you like. Offer a simple green salad or garlic bread on the side. Cut into pieces and serve on warm plates.

how to store Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

Cool the bake to room temperature, then cover and place in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, put portions in a freezer container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or heat in the microwave in a covered dish.

tips to make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

• Do not overcook the pasta; slightly firm pasta holds up in the bake.
• Use good-quality pesto for best flavor.
• Brown the chicken well for more taste.
• Stir the pasta mix gently so the cheese melts evenly.
• Let the bake rest 5 minutes after cooking to set.

variation (if any)

• Swap chicken for cooked sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for more color.
• Use spinach or kale, or skip greens for a simple version.
• Try a mix of cheeses like fontina or provolone for a different melt.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes. Thaw and squeeze out water before adding.

Q: Can I make this ahead and bake later?
A: Yes. Assemble in a dish, cover, refrigerate, and bake when ready. You may need a few extra minutes in the oven.

Q: Is this dish good for meal prep?
A: Yes. It reheats well and makes good leftovers.

Q: Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
A: Yes. Follow the package cook time and check for al dente.

Conclusion

This creamy pesto chicken pasta bake makes a filling and simple meal for weeknights or small gatherings. For another version and detailed steps, you can see a similar take at Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake | Bad Batch Baking. If you want a quick weeknight guide, check the helpful notes on Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake (Easy Weeknight Dinner).