Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe 2025

I recently discovered a delightful dish that I can’t stop making: the Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and vibrant pesto, all layered with pasta and cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this pasta bake is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why I Love Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

There’s something about a pasta bake that brings back memories of family dinners. I remember my mom making a similar dish when I was growing up. The aroma of melting cheese and baked pasta filled our home, creating a cozy atmosphere. This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe does just that, and it’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

To make this creamy delight, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work great)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Optional Add-Ins:

Cherry tomatoes, halved
Spinach or kale
Mushrooms, sliced
Bell peppers, diced

How to Prepare Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Making this pasta bake is a breeze. I love how quickly everything comes together. Here’s how I do it:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First, I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the pasta bake cooks evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Next, I cook the pasta according to the package instructions. I usually cook it just until al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven. Once done, I drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, I combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, pesto sauce, heavy cream, garlic powder, and half of the mozzarella cheese. I stir everything together until well mixed. It’s such a beautiful sight with all the vibrant colors.

Step 4: Season to Taste

I taste the mixture and add salt and pepper as needed. This is where I can get creative. If I want to add cherry tomatoes or spinach, I toss them in at this stage.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

I pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spreading it evenly helps with even cooking.

Step 6: Top with Cheese

To finish, I sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust when baked.

Step 7: Bake in the Oven

I place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. I keep an eye on it, waiting for the cheese to melt and turn golden brown.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once it’s done, I take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. I garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor before serving.

Tips for Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Over the years, I have learned a few tips to make this dish even better:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pesto packs a punch compared to jarred versions. If you have the time, making your own can elevate the flavors.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Since the pasta will bake further, cooking it just a bit underdone prevents it from becoming mushy.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to throw in vegetables or different proteins. This recipe is versatile and can adapt to your preferences.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, they can be stored easily. I let the pasta bake cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating in the oven or microwave is simple, and it still tastes great.

Freezing the Pasta Bake

This dish also freezes well. I prepare the pasta bake but do not bake it. Instead, I cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze it. When I’m ready to eat, I thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake it as directed. This is a fantastic option for meal prep.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

I often serve this creamy pesto chicken pasta bake with a side salad or garlic bread. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the pasta, while garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of what you can expect per serving of this dish:

Calories: Approximately 500 kcal
Total Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 30g

These values can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Why You Should Try Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is not just delicious; it’s also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you have kids or are entertaining friends, everyone will love it. The creamy texture, combined with the fresh taste of pesto, creates a dish that warms the heart. Plus, it’s easy to make, making it a win-win for busy weeknights.