This Creamy Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is a warm and cozy dish that brings together tender chicken, pasta, and a rich basil pesto sauce, all baked to perfection. Yum!
I love how this dish makes a great family dinner! Plus, the creamy sauce means everyone will be asking for seconds. Who can resist cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: I love using penne for this bake because its shape holds the sauce beautifully. If you don’t have penne, feel free to substitute with rigatoni or fusilli. They both work just as well!
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto is handy, but homemade is fantastic if you have the time. You can make it with fresh basil, garlic, cheese, pine nuts, and olive oil. For a nut-free version, use sunflower seeds instead of pine nuts.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream makes the dish extra creamy, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the flavor might slightly change.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices here. If you’re looking for a twist, consider using cheddar for an extra sharp flavor. You can also mix in some goat cheese for creaminess!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking the chicken properly is key to keeping it juicy. Here’s how you can do that:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps sear the outside.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—give each piece space to brown without steaming.
- Cook until just done (about 6-8 minutes). Overcooking can lead to dryness!
Adding minced garlic during the last minute will also enhance the flavor without burning it. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before adding it to the pasta mix to help retain moisture.
Creamy Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Chicken:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables and Sauces:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Cheese:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Flavoring:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 20-25 minutes to bake. So overall, you’re looking at about 40-45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick, comforting dish perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure 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. Toss in the penne pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Cook the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until they’re browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). In the last minute, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, then remove it from the heat.
4. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, basil pesto, and heavy cream. Stir everything well to make sure all the pasta and chicken are coated in that delicious pesto sauce.
5. Assemble the Bake:
Transfer your pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top it off with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, spreading them evenly over the surface.
6. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
7. Garnish and Serve:
When it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Then sprinkle some chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
8. Enjoy:
Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, flavorful basil pesto chicken pasta bake! It’s comforting, cheesy, and simply delicious.
This dish is a perfect blend of creamy pesto and juicy chicken, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber, and gluten-free pasta will work just as well. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as cooking times may vary.
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Yes! You can easily swap chicken for cooked ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just ensure any alternative is cooked through before mixing it with the pasta.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and increase the amount of tomatoes and veggies, like spinach or bell peppers. You could also add some cooked lentils for protein and texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You may need to add a splash of cream or milk to keep it creamy while reheating.
