This Creamy Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is a cozy dish that brings together tender chicken, pasta, and a rich, creamy basil pesto sauce. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Trust me, the creamy sauce makes every bite comforting and tasty. I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top for that extra flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner night! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using rotini or spiral pasta because they hold sauce well. You can use penne or fusilli if you like! Just make sure the pasta is sturdy enough to stand up to the creamy sauce.
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast adds protein and flavor. If you want a quicker option, use a rotisserie chicken—it’s already cooked! For a vegetarian version, swap with grilled veggies or beans.
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto is convenient, but homemade makes it extra special! If you can’t find basil, you can substitute with spinach or arugula pesto for a twist.
Cheeses: The mix of mozzarella and parmesan gives a wonderful cheesy flavor. If you’re dairy-free, consider using plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Heavy Cream: It adds creaminess, but you can swap it with half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter version. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt mixed with a splash of milk.
How Do You Get the Cheese Perfectly Melty and Golden?
Achieving that cheesy, golden top is all about temperature and time! Here are some tips to make your bake perfect:
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) before baking. This helps the cheese melt evenly.
- When sprinkling cheese on top, don’t hold back! Evenly covering the surface helps create that delicious, bubbly crust.
- If the top isn’t browning as much as you’d like, you can switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Letting the dish rest after baking allows the cheese to set a little, making it easier to serve. Enjoy this cheesy goodness!
Creamy Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Bake:
- 12 oz rotini or spiral pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 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 to prepare and 25 minutes to cook. Total time is around 40 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and hot for baking.
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the rotini or spiral pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not browned. This will give your dish a lovely flavor!
4. Add the Chicken:
Next, add the cooked chicken to the skillet and warm it through for about 2-3 minutes. Lightly season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until everything is heated evenly.
5. Mix the Cream and Pesto:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the basil pesto and heavy cream (or half-and-half). Stir until the mixture is fully blended and creamy.
6. Combine Ingredients:
Now, add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the pesto cream mixture. Toss it together with the chicken, cherry tomatoes, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until everything is well coated.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, sprinkling it across the surface.
8. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the bake is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped basil for a burst of flavor, and it’s ready to be served. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy pasta bake!
This creamy basil pesto chicken pasta bake is perfect for a warm, satisfying meal featuring tender chicken, flavorful pesto, and melted cheese! Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Pasta for This Bake?
Absolutely! While rotini or spiral pasta works great, you can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the sauce!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of cream if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this a vegetarian dish by omitting the chicken and adding veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini instead. Just sauté them along with the garlic.
Is It Possible to Freeze This Pasta Bake?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking! Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.
