Go Back

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

A rich and comforting baked pasta made with tender chicken, basil pesto, cream, and melted cheese. Perfect for easy pesto dinner recipes and family meals.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz pasta penne, rigatoni, or rotini
  • 2 cups cooked diced chicken breast
  • 1 cup basil pesto
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
  2. Cook pasta until al dente and drain.
  3. Sauté garlic in olive oil for 30 seconds.
  4. Stir in pesto and cream; simmer briefly. Add chicken, salt, and pepper.
  5. Mix pasta with sauce and transfer to baking dish.
  6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
  7. Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  8. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for freshness.
Swap pasta for tortellini for a variation.
Assemble ahead and refrigerate before baking.