This Creamy Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting dish that’s easy to love! It’s packed with tender chicken, your favorite pasta, and a rich, creamy basil pesto that ties everything together.
I can’t help but smile when I see this bake bubbling in the oven. It’s like a warm hug for dinner! I personally enjoy adding extra cheese on top because, well, who can resist cheesy goodness? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This is my go-to for its delightful shape that holds sauce well. If you want something different, try rotini or fussili—they both work great too!
Chicken: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this. You can easily swap them for rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Basil Pesto: A crucial flavor here! You can use store-bought for convenience. If you can’t find it, homemade pesto made with basil, garlic, nuts, and oil is simple to whip up.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess, but if you’re watching calories, you can substitute with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Both will still give a luscious texture!
Cheese: I love the combination of mozzarella and Parmesan. If you’re after something lighter, try a low-fat cheese blend or nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly for This Bake?
Cooking the chicken well ensures it’s tender and flavorful. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat, adding olive oil to coat the bottom.
- Cut chicken into equal-sized pieces for even cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side without moving. Flip when golden.
- Cook until no longer pink (about 6-8 minutes in total). Let it rest briefly before adding to your pasta mixture.
Taking the time to properly cook the chicken makes a big difference in this dish!
Creamy Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Bake:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced or cubed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy basil pesto chicken pasta bake will take about 15 minutes for prep and around 25 minutes to bake. Altogether, set aside about 40 minutes to prepare and enjoy this comforting dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your pasta bake is ready to go in!
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and let it sit aside.
3. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the sliced or cubed chicken with salt and pepper. Add it to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the pieces are browned and cooked through. Once finished, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, basil pesto, and heavy cream. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are nicely coated with the sauce.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread out so each bite is nice and cheesy!
6. Add the Cheesy Topping:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. This is where you can get a little cheesy—feel free to add even more if you love cheese!
7. Bake it Up:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, carefully take it out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This helps everything set and makes it easier to serve.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
For a fresh finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves on top before serving. Now your creamy, cheesy, basil-infused chicken pasta bake is ready to be devoured!
Enjoy every bite of this delicious dish!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber, while gluten-free pasta options like rice or corn-based pasta work just as well. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the package instructions!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, though they won’t be as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or almond milk, but keep in mind the flavor may change slightly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Just sauté them in the skillet with the chicken to soften them before mixing into the pasta bake. Enjoy the added flavors!