Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful, and creamy pasta dish that comes together effortlessly, this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is exactly what you need. With tender chunks of chicken, vibrant cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a luscious pesto cream sauce, every bite feels like a warm hug. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Plus, the combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese baked to golden perfection on top means you get that irresistible cheesy crust that everyone loves.

Why This Recipe Works

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake hits all the right notes. The rich pesto sauce, made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil, melds beautifully with the cream to create a velvety sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. The chicken adds hearty protein, while the cherry tomatoes burst with freshness, balancing the richness. Spinach sneaks in some greens without overpowering the dish. Baking it all together allows the flavors to marry, and the cheese topping adds texture and a golden finish. It’s a recipe that’s flavorful yet straightforward, perfect for cooks of all skill levels.

What to Buy

• 12 ounces of pasta – penne or fusilli work best as they hold the sauce well.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the chicken.
• 2 chicken breasts, diced – ensures quick cooking and even bites.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – adds a pop of color and sweetness.
• 1 cup fresh spinach – for a nutritional boost and vibrant color.
• 1 cup pesto sauce – store-bought or homemade, your choice!
• 1 cup heavy cream – creates the creamy base for the sauce.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully for that gooey top layer.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for a nutty, salty finish.
• Salt and pepper – to taste, essential for seasoning.

Recommended Tools

• Large pot – to boil the pasta.
• Large skillet – for sautéing chicken and veggies.
• Baking dish (9×13 inches works well) – to bake the pasta bake evenly.
• Mixing spoon or spatula – for stirring everything together.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to get the ingredient amounts just right.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake — Do This Next

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of penne or fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and just cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Veggies

In the same skillet, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts slightly and the tomatoes soften.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in 1 cup of pesto sauce and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir to combine and let it simmer gently for 2 minutes to thicken.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together so the pasta is fully coated in the creamy pesto sauce with the veggies and chicken evenly distributed.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pasta bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes it easier to portion out.

Smart Substitutions

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier, more flavorful meat.
• Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.
• Swap mozzarella for cheddar or fontina cheese for a different flavor profile.
• If you don’t have pesto on hand, try making your own with fresh basil, garlic, nuts, olive oil, and cheese or use a Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta recipe that also includes a fresh pesto twist.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

Chef’s Notes

• Be sure not to overcook the pasta in boiling water; it will cook further in the oven.
• Allow the baked pasta to rest after taking it out of the oven. This helps the sauce thicken and makes serving easier.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh basil or chopped parsley on top before serving.
• If you love a bit of spice, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Leftover Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can assemble the pasta bake up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, just pop it into the oven and bake as instructed.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Popular Questions

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet to avoid a watery sauce.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for extra substance. You might also try the Creamy Pesto Tortellini Skillet for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

What kind of pesto sauce is best for this recipe?

Traditional basil pesto is ideal for this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake, but you can experiment with sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for different flavor twists.

Can I freeze the pasta bake?

Yes! After baking and cooling completely, portion the pasta bake into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for best results.

What to Make After This

• Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta – a stovetop version that’s quick and just as delicious.
• Creamy Pesto Tortellini Skillet – a cheesy, comforting one-pan meal.
• Garlic bread – perfect for soaking up any extra pesto cream sauce.
• Simple mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette – adds freshness to balance the richness.

Bring It to the Table

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is a showstopper for any dinner table. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the creamy, herbaceous flavors beautifully. Whether you’re hosting friends or feeding your family, this dish is sure to become a favorite that you’ll return to again and again.

There’s something so satisfying about a well-made pasta bake — it’s like a warm, cheesy embrace that’s both comforting and elegant. With its simple ingredients and foolproof method, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves creamy, flavorful meals without the fuss. So grab your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready for a delicious dinner that’s just as good the next day.

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