Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
This creamy pesto chicken pasta bake is an easy crowd-pleaser featuring tender chicken, pasta, basil pesto, and two kinds of cheese baked into a delicious casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Dairy-Free (with substitutions), Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 1/2 oz baby spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 10 1/2 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 7/8 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente and set aside.
- Warm olive oil and butter in a skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30–45 seconds.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, add to skillet, and cook until browned and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove chicken from skillet, let rest, then slice.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, sliced chicken, spinach, pesto, cream, milk, mozzarella, and half of Parmesan.
- Transfer to baking dish, spread evenly, and top with remaining Parmesan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Can use gluten-free pasta and adjust milk for lower fat options. For a dairy-free version, use appropriate alternatives.
Find it online: https://www.wholesomeeasy.com/creamy-pesto-chicken-pasta-bake-2/