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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake - Easy Family Comfort Food Recipe

This creamy pesto chicken pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your weeknight dinner table. With its creamy basil pesto sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy golden topping, this dish is perfect for busy evenings and feeds a crowd.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
  • 1 cup basil pesto
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stir in the pesto, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy pesto chicken mixture. Transfer everything to a 9x13 baking dish.
  6. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Notes

Make ahead: Assemble up to baking step and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Freezer friendly: Freeze before baking, then thaw overnight. Use penne, rigatoni, ziti or bowtie pasta. Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.