Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of basil fills the kitchen as I pull a bubbling dish from the oven, and I can’t help but smile—it’s time for my Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake. This creamy, hearty meal features tender rotisserie chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all drizzled with vibrant pesto and topped with melty mozzarella. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; it’s an easy dinner recipe that requires minimal fuss while delivering maximum comfort. Whether you’re whipping it up on a busy weeknight or for a cozy weekend gathering, it’s a crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to enjoy wholesome, real food. I bet you’ll love how effortlessly it comes together. Are you ready to dig into this pasta perfection? Why is this Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake a Must-Try? Simplicity at Its Best: This Easy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake requires minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of basil pesto and heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that delights the taste buds. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve it at family dinners or gatherings, and watch everyone go back for seconds! Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in grilled chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option—to suit everyone’s taste. Comforting Texture: With the creamy pasta, tender chicken, and melty cheese, every bite offers a blend of comforting flavors that feels like a warm hug. Elevate your weeknight meals by adding this delectable dish to your menu, and if you’re a fan of chicken recipes, don’t miss out on my Cheesy Garlic Chicken for further inspiration! Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Ingredients For the Pasta Bake • Rotisserie Chicken – Adds protein and convenience; substitutes like shredded grilled chicken work perfectly too. • Penne Pasta – Provides structure and heartiness; consider whole wheat or gluten-free options based on dietary needs. • Basil Pesto – Delivers intense flavor and freshness; feel free to substitute with homemade pesto for a personal touch. • Heavy Cream – Contributes to a rich, creamy sauce; you can use half-and-half for a lighter version. • Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds umami depth to the dish; Pecorino Romano can be used if you prefer a sharper taste. For Seasoning • Garlic Powder – Infuses an aromatic flavor; real garlic can elevate the freshness even further. • Black Pepper – Provides seasoning and the right touch of heat for balance. For the Topping • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully to add creaminess and stretch; try Gouda for a different flavor profile. • Cherry Tomatoes – Offers a burst of sweetness and freshness; optional but highly recommended for color and flavor. • Pine Nuts (optional) – Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor; walnuts can be a great alternative if you’re out. Embrace this easy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake to bring warmth and comfort to your family dinner table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Step 1: Preheat Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when you’re ready to bake your Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake, the oven is perfectly hot for even cooking. While it heats, prepare your ingredients, and you’ll be ready to go once the oven signals that it’s time. Step 2: Cook Pasta In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside in a large mixing bowl. Taking care not to overcook the pasta will ensure it’s perfectly firm in the bake, absorbing the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Step 3: Prepare Chicken While the pasta cooks, shred your rotisserie chicken, ensuring there are no large chunks left. Once the pasta is drained, add the chicken to your mixing bowl with the penne. This step brings together the hearty elements of your Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake, making it protein-packed and satisfying. Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce In the same mixing bowl, stir in the basil pesto, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. You’ll notice a deliciously creamy consistency forming, perfect for enveloping the pasta and chicken in vibrant flavor. Step 5: Combine Ingredients Gently fold the creamy mixture into the pasta and chicken until everything is well coated. Ensure that every piece of pasta and chicken is enveloped in the rich sauce, making the final bake extra delightful. This step also ensures even flavor distribution throughout your Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake! Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. This is where the magic happens as it prepares to become a bubbling, cheesy delight in your oven. Step 7: Top & Prepare for Baking Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the pasta. If using, add halved cherry tomatoes and pine nuts for added flavor and texture. This finishing touch makes your Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake not just tasty but visually appealing as well. Step 8: Bake the Dish Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the cheese to melt and bubble, turning golden brown for that perfect cheesy finish. The kitchen will soon be filled with a wonderful aroma! Step 9: Serve and Enjoy Once baked to perfection, remove the Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for about 5 minutes. This brief rest will help the layers settle, making it easier to serve. Get ready to enjoy a warm, comforting dish that your family will crave! Storage Tips for Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake in a tightly wrapped dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat servings in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or in the microwave until heated through. This ensures the cheese stays melty and delicious! Make-Ahead: Prepare the pasta bake in advance, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Bake directly from the fridge by adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results. What to Serve with Easy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake A comforting meal deserves delightful companions that elevate the whole dining experience. Garlic Bread: The warm, crispy bread pairs perfectly with the creamy bake, allowing you to scoop up every delicious bite with ease. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp texture and balances the richness of the pasta bake. The refreshing greens bring color and vibrancy to the meal. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add depth and earthy flavors that complement the dish beautifully. The caramelization deepens their sweetness, making them a delightful side. Steamed Asparagus: This tender green veggie offers a crisp bite that pairs wonderfully with the creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake, providing a nutritious and elegant touch. Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing beverage like homemade lemonade or iced tea cuts through the richness of the dish, offering a bright and zesty contrast. Tiramisu: End the meal on a sweet note with this coffee-flavored dessert that adds layers of creamy richness, creating a perfect ending to your family dinner. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: For a nostalgic touch, serve this moist cake; its fruity sweetness complements the savory flavors of the pasta bake, making it a delightful surprise. Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Variations Get creative and personalize your Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake with these delightful twists that will make your taste buds sing! Vegetarian Option: Swap out the rotisserie chicken for chickpeas or grilled vegetables for a delicious meatless meal. The combination of textures will keep it satisfying. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce to crank up the heat. A little spice can transform this comforting dish into something exciting! Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own special twist to this dish! Add Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale before baking for an extra boost of nutrition and vibrant color. This is a wonderful way to sneak in some veggies! Nutty Crunch: Instead of pine nuts, sprinkle chopped walnuts or even sunflower seeds over the top before baking for added crunch. The different textures will elevate every bite! Pasta Shapes: Switch up the penne for fusilli or rigatoni to change the overall mouthfeel of the dish. Each shape holds the sauce differently, making it a fun surprise! Sauce Twist: Swap basil pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto or even a roasted red pepper sauce for a brand-new flavor experience. Each sauce comes with its own unique taste adventure! Whichever variations you choose, your family will love the versatility of this dish. And if you’re a fan of chicken recipes, you might enjoy diving into my Baked Hot Honey or Garlic Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms for even more delightful weeknight options! Make Ahead Options This Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe, assemble everything in the baking dish, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain the dish’s quality and prevent the pasta from drying out, make sure to keep it tightly sealed. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting meal, remove it from the fridge and bake it directly—just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through. Enjoy effortless deliciousness with minimal fuss! Expert Tips for Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake • Perfect Pasta Texture: Ensure you cook the penne pasta al dente; it will continue cooking in the oven, so you want it to hold its shape well. • Cheese Management: Avoid overcrowding the baking dish to promote even cooking and melting. If needed, use a larger dish for your Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake. • Prevent Burning: Cover the dish with aluminum foil during the first half of baking to prevent the cheese from burning while keeping it bubbly. • Seasoning Balance: Adjust the garlic powder and black pepper to your taste, remembering that fresh garlic can amplify the flavors if you choose to use it. • Storage Savvy: Leftovers can stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain that melty cheese effect! Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right rotisserie chicken? Absolutely! When selecting a rotisserie chicken, look for one that has a golden-brown skin and is still warm. This indicates that it’s freshly cooked. Avoid any chickens with dark spots or a dry appearance. If you prefer, you can also opt for grilled or baked chicken that’s shredded, which can add a different flavor profile to your Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake. How should I store leftovers from the Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake? After enjoying your meal, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Reheat gently in the oven to keep that cheesy goodness intact! Can I freeze the Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake? Certainly! To freeze, wrap the Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake tightly in foil or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s heated through and bubbly—about 20-25 minutes. What should I do if my pasta seems overcooked? Don’t worry! If you find your pasta’s texture isn’t as firm as you’d like, the best way to salvage it is to cook it al dente next time. Just ensure you keep an eye on the pasta while boiling—typically, 8-10 minutes should do the trick for penne. Also remember, it will continue cooking slightly while baking in the oven, so aim for that firm bite! Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Yes! This recipe can be adjusted for various dietary needs. For those with gluten sensitivities, opt for gluten-free pasta. If you’re looking for vegetarian options, chickpeas can replace the rotisserie chicken, offering protein without meat. Additionally, keep an eye on any allergies to nuts if you choose to include pine nuts in your Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake. Can I use store-bought pesto, or should I make my own? You can absolutely use store-bought basil pesto! However, if you’re feeling adventurous, making your own can elevate the flavors. Choose fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, and pine nuts, blend them with olive oil, and you’ve got yourself a delicious homemade version. Either way, your Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake will taste fantastic! Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Your Family Will Crave This creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake features tender rotisserie chicken and penne pasta, all drizzled with pesto and topped with mozzarella—a crowd-pleaser your family will crave. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: CasseroleCuisine: ItalianCalories: 520 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta Bake1 whole Rotisserie Chicken Substitute with grilled chicken if preferred.12 ounces Penne Pasta Consider whole wheat or gluten-free options.1 cup Basil Pesto Homemade pesto can be used.1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half may be used for a lighter version.1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can be substituted.For Seasoning1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can also be used for more flavor.1/2 teaspoon Black PepperFor the Topping2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Gouda can be substituted for a different flavor.1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Optional but recommended.1/4 cup Pine Nuts Walnuts can be a great alternative. Equipment Large PotMixing bowlbaking dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).Bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.Shred the rotisserie chicken and add it to the mixing bowl with the pasta.In the mixing bowl, stir in basil pesto, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined.Fold the creamy mixture into the pasta and chicken until everything is well coated.Lightly grease a baking dish and pour the pasta mixture into it, spreading evenly.Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, and add cherry tomatoes and pine nuts if using.Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.Remove from the oven and cool for 5 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 33gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 16gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg NotesLeftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For long-term storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
