This creamy basil pesto chicken pasta bake is a warm and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with tasty pasta and rich pesto. It’s like a hug on a plate!
What I love most is how easy it comes together. Just mix everything, bake it, and you’ll have a yummy dinner ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Penne and rigatoni are great choices for this bake, as their shape holds onto the creamy sauce well. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a lighter dish.
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is a classic, but feel free to swap in leftover rotisserie chicken or even shredded turkey. If you’re vegetarian, you can replace the chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas for added protein.
Basil Pesto: While store-bought pesto saves time, you can also whip up homemade basil pesto using fresh basil, garlic, nuts, and olive oil. For a twist, try sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach pesto for different flavor profiles.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese helps create the creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt or a lower-fat cream cheese alternative. If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan cream cheese.
How Do You Ensure the Pasta Bake is Creamy and Not Dry?
To keep your pasta bake creamy, the ratio of sauce to pasta is essential. Make sure you add enough cream and pesto to thoroughly coat the pasta. Here’s how:
- Don’t overcook the pasta before mixing. Al dente pasta absorbs sauce during baking.
- Mix the triad of cream cheese, heavy cream, and pesto well to avoid clumps.
- When baking, cover the dish with foil for the first part of cooking to trap moisture, then remove it for the last few minutes to brown the cheese.
Following these tips will ensure your pasta bake stays creamy and delicious!
Creamy Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Bake:
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta bake will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. With 10 minutes for prep and around 20-25 minutes for baking, you’ll have a time-efficient meal that’s hearty and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking later on.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add the Chicken:
Stir in the diced cooked chicken and heat it through for about 2-3 minutes. Season it with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Mix the Sauce:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, basil pesto, heavy cream, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Mix everything well with a spatula or whisk until it’s smooth and creamy.
6. Combine Pasta and Chicken:
Add the cooked pasta and the chicken with garlic to the bowl. Gently toss everything together to coat the pasta nicely with the creamy pesto sauce.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly so every bite is well-covered in sauce.
8. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top of the pasta for that beautiful, cheesy finish.
9. Bake:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and chopped parsley, if desired, for a lovely touch.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and flavorful basil pesto chicken pasta bake as a satisfying meal for any day of the week!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber, while gluten-free pasta works well for those with dietary restrictions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions for your specific pasta type.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in a preheated oven. If it seems dry, add a splash of cream or broth when reheating to bring back moisture!
Can I Freeze This Pasta Bake for Later?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Assemble the pasta bake, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese instead. For a dairy-free alternative, try using vegan cream cheese or nut-based cream alternatives, ensuring it blends smoothly with the pesto and cream.
