Caprese Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake

There’s something incredibly comforting about the marriage of Italian flavors in a warm, cheesy pasta bake, and this Caprese Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake is no exception. Imagine tender chicken breasts nestled in a bed of perfectly cooked penne pasta, all tossed in vibrant green pesto, bursting with juicy cherry tomatoes, and topped with fresh mozzarella and a golden Parmesan crust. This dish effortlessly combines the freshness of a Caprese salad with the heartiness of a pasta bake, making it a weeknight dinner winner that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping a meal to impress guests, this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Caprese Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake is reliable for several reasons. First, it uses simple, high-quality ingredients that complement each other perfectly without any unnecessary fuss. The chicken breasts are seasoned with Italian herbs and seared to lock in flavor and juiciness before being baked with the pasta, so the protein stays tender and moist. The pesto sauce adds a fresh, herbaceous punch that ties everything together, while the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella add bursts of freshness and creaminess that balance the dish beautifully.

Additionally, the recipe is straightforward and forgiving, allowing even beginner cooks to achieve delicious results. The pasta is cooked just right to absorb the sauce without becoming mushy, and the bake time ensures everything melds together with a cheesy, golden crust that’s irresistible. Plus, the dish is versatile enough to tweak according to your preferences or what you have on hand, making it a dependable recipe for any season.

What to Buy

• 8 oz penne pasta – Choose your favorite brand of dried penne for the perfect pasta base.
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Look for fresh chicken breasts, trimmed of excess fat.
• 1 cup pesto sauce – You can use store-bought or homemade basil pesto for that vibrant, herby flavor.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Fresh, ripe tomatoes add sweetness and acidity.
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved – Also known as bocconcini; these melt beautifully in the bake.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Provides a salty, nutty topping.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For cooking the chicken and adding richness.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of dried herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
• Fresh basil leaves – For garnish to add freshness and color.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large pot – For boiling the penne pasta.
• Large skillet or frying pan – To sear the chicken breasts evenly.
• Baking dish (9×13 inches works well) – To assemble and bake the pasta dish.
• Colander – For draining the cooked pasta.
• Mixing spoon or spatula – To combine the ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient amounts.

Caprese Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake — Do This Next

Step 1: Prepare the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat, let rest for a few minutes, then slice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Mix the pasta bake

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, sliced chicken, and pesto sauce. Toss everything until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the pesto.

Step 4: Assemble the bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer half of the pasta mixture into your baking dish. Evenly distribute half of the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls over the pasta. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, then layer the rest of the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake to perfection

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for an aromatic finish.

Spring to Winter: Ideas

• In spring and summer, swap cherry tomatoes for sun-ripened heirlooms or add fresh garden peas for a pop of sweetness.
• During cooler months, try adding roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms into the mix for extra warmth and flavor.
• For a lighter option, use whole wheat or gluten-free penne pasta.
• Experiment with different pesto varieties such as sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for a twist.
• Add a handful of baby spinach or kale just before baking to sneak in some greens.

What Not to Do

• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente before baking to avoid mushiness.
• Avoid overcrowding the skillet with chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and a nice sear.
• Don’t skip resting the chicken after cooking – it keeps the meat juicy and tender.
• Don’t forget to salt your pasta water; it’s your first chance to season the dish properly.
• Avoid using low-quality pesto; fresh, flavorful pesto makes all the difference.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Caprese Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake is perfect for meal prep and leftovers. You can assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Once baked, let it cool completely and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in the oven until heated through. This dish also freezes well; freeze in portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Quick Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the pesto and cheese, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even a gluten-free pasta to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

What if I don’t have fresh mozzarella balls?

You can use sliced fresh mozzarella or even shredded mozzarella cheese. Just keep in mind that the bite-sized balls melt evenly and give that authentic Caprese texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and increase the amount of vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. You could also try adding plant-based protein alternatives for added texture.

How spicy is this dish?

This Caprese Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake is mild and flavorful without any heat. If you want a bit of a kick, you can add red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken or sprinkle on top before baking.

Next Up in Your Queue

• For another fresh pasta dish with vibrant tomato and cheese flavors, try Caprese Tomato Mozzarella Penne.
• If you want to explore another chicken pasta recipe with seasonal vegetables, the Chicken Asparagus Mushroom Pasta is a delicious next step.
• Craving more pesto pasta? Check out the quick and creamy 15 Minute Creamy Pesto Tortellini for a speedy meal.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Caprese Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake hot and fresh from the oven, garnished with fragrant basil leaves for that final touch. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a well-rounded meal. This dish is perfect for cozy dinners, casual entertaining, or even meal prepping for a busy week ahead. The combination of tender chicken, fresh pesto, juicy tomatoes, and melted mozzarella will delight everyone at your table, making it a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. Enjoy every comforting bite!

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