Indulge in the delightful flavors of Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake! This dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and gooey mozzarella cheese enveloped in a luscious cream sauce. It’s ideal for comforting family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends, making it a versatile option that appeals to all palates.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This creamy pasta bake can be prepared in under an hour, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of basil pesto and creamy sauce delivers a burst of flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, potluck, or casual get-together.
- One-Pan Wonder: With minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy your meal without the hassle of multiple dishes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters will love this savory dish packed with cheesy goodness.
Tools and Preparation
To ensure a smooth cooking process for your Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake, gather the necessary tools before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without sticking together.
- Skillet: Great for sautéing chicken and spinach quickly while retaining flavor.
- Baking dish: Provides the perfect space to assemble and bake your pasta casserole.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces penne pasta
For the Chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Vegetables
- 3 cups fresh spinach
For the Sauce
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream
For Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves
How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Spinach
In the same skillet, add the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
Step 4: Combine the Sauce
In a large bowl, mix together the basil pesto and heavy cream. Stir in the cooked chicken, sautéed spinach, cooked pasta, red pepper flakes (if using), and half of the mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake and Serve
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake!
How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
Serving your Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake can elevate the dining experience, making it even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your meal.
Family Style
- Serve the pasta bake directly from the dish at the table. This encourages sharing and creates a comforting atmosphere for family dinners.
Individual Portions
- For a more refined presentation, scoop individual servings into bowls. Add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for an extra touch.
With Garlic Bread
- Pairing with warm, crusty garlic bread provides a great way to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s perfect for those who enjoy dipping!
Fresh Salad
- A side of mixed greens or Caesar salad can balance the richness of the dish. The crunchiness and acidity will complement the flavors beautifully.
How to Perfect Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
Perfecting this dish is all about attention to detail and using quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your pasta bake turns out amazing every time.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil pesto and organic chicken make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking it al dente ensures it holds up well during baking and avoids mushiness.
- Experiment with cheeses: Try mixing different cheeses like fontina or gouda for added flavor complexity.
- Adjust the spice level: Add more red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier kick, or omit them for a milder dish.
- Let it rest before serving: Allowing the pasta bake to sit for 5 minutes after baking helps set the layers, making it easier to serve.
- Garnish creatively: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add brightness and color when sprinkled on top just before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake enhances your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent choices.
- Garlic Bread
A classic accompaniment, perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce. - Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast. - Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil add flavor and nutrition. - Steamed Asparagus
Lightly steamed asparagus brings a touch of elegance and pairs well with pasta. - Caprese Salad
Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a vibrant side. - Bruschetta
Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and garlic offers a fresh burst of flavor that complements the pasta bake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Ignoring pasta cooking time: Overcooking your penne pasta can lead to a mushy texture. Always cook it al dente according to the package instructions.
- Under-seasoning the chicken: Not seasoning the chicken adequately can lead to bland flavors. Use salt and pepper generously to enhance the dish’s taste.
- Skipping the sauté step for spinach: Adding fresh spinach directly without sautéing may not let it wilt properly, resulting in an overly crunchy texture. Always cook it until just wilted.
- Not mixing sauce thoroughly: Failing to combine the basil pesto and cream well can leave patches of flavor in your bake. Make sure to mix everything thoroughly for a consistent taste.
- Overcrowding the baking dish: Packing too much into one dish can prevent even cooking. Use an appropriately sized baking dish to allow for proper heat distribution.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
- Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake?
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting casserole made with tender chicken, pasta, spinach, and a rich basil pesto cream sauce topped with cheese.
Can I make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time, refrigerate it before baking, and then bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version of this pasta bake.
How do I customize my Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or switch up the cheese types according to your preference.
What can I serve with Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
The Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is not only rich and satisfying but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or changing up the cheeses based on what you have at home. Give this delightful recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, fresh spinach, and a rich basil pesto cream sauce, all topped with a gooey layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, this baked pasta will quickly become a favorite on your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper; cook until browned (6-8 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- Sauté spinach in the same skillet for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- In a bowl, mix basil pesto and heavy cream. Combine with cooked chicken, sautéed spinach, cooked pasta, and half the mozzarella.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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