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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

This creamy pesto chicken pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food that comes together in just a few simple steps. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant basil pesto in a rich, cheesy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb penne pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
  • 1 cup basil pesto
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. While the pasta cooks, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the basil pesto and heavy cream, mixing until well combined.
  3. Add the cooked chicken cubes to the sauce, followed by the drained pasta. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Mix in 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese and all the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  4. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with breadcrumbs if using. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  5. Let the pasta bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly for perfect serving consistency.

Notes

Make ahead friendly - assemble up to 24 hours in advance; Use penne, rigatoni or any short pasta; Can substitute chicken with salmon or beef sausage; Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months; Slightly undercook pasta since it continues cooking in oven