If you are craving a cozy, comforting, yet fresh dinner that never fails to impress, the Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe is about to become your new weeknight superstar. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and luscious pesto-infused cream sauce baked to bubbly, golden perfection with pasta that holds every flavor beautifully. It’s a wonderful harmony of creamy, cheesy, and herbaceous notes that transform simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal that feels like a warm hug after a busy day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple but hearty ingredients is all it takes to make this dish shine. Each component brings its own magic—whether it’s the fresh basil pesto adding bright herbal flavor, or the cheesy melty texture that makes every bite satisfying and indulgent.
- 12 ounces penne pasta: Use penne for its perfect shape that catches sauce in every nook and cranny.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced): Rotisserie chicken works great for a time-saver without sacrificing taste.
- 2 cups broccoli florets (lightly steamed): Adds a lovely pop of green and fresh crunch to contrast the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup basil pesto: The star flavor with a vibrant and herbaceous punch from basil, garlic, and pine nuts.
- 1½ cups heavy cream: Creates the decadently creamy sauce that envelops all the ingredients beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For melty, gooey richness inside the bake.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty backbone to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings a fragrant warmth and depth to the sauce base.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic gently, enhancing its flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the other flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick without overwhelming the delicate pesto.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a hint of heat to contrast the creamy sauce.
- ½ cup mozzarella or Parmesan for topping: A golden, bubbly crust forms the perfect finish.
How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your pasta bake won’t stick. Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water just until al dente — this slight firmness will help your pasta hold up beautifully through baking without turning mushy. Then drain it and set it aside while you prepare the sauce and other ingredients.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Let it cook for about a minute until fragrant but not browned, releasing that warm, aromatic flavor. Then stir in the heavy cream and basil pesto, letting it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes. This soft simmer helps thicken the sauce slightly and marry the flavors into a rich, velvety coating. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
Step 3: Combine Pasta, Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheese
In a large bowl, toss together your cooked penne, shredded or diced chicken, lightly steamed broccoli florets, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pour the luscious pesto cream sauce over everything and stir gently but thoroughly until every bite will be perfectly coated with that irresistible sauce.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Pasta Bake
Transfer your combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top to create a golden, bubbling crust. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the whole dish is heated through and the cheese topping turns beautifully golden and bubbly. Once out of the oven, allow it to cool slightly so it sets up just right before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
To boost the freshness and presentation, sprinkle some chopped fresh basil or parsley on top right before serving. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add a lovely sheen and richness. For a touch of brightness, a few cherry tomato halves make a perfect contrast in both color and flavor.
Side Dishes
This pasta bake is rich and filling, so pairing it with a crisp, refreshing salad like a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy cucumber and tomato salad complements the creamy texture perfectly. If you want a warm side, roasted garlic bread is a classic crowd-pleaser that goes hand-in-hand with any cheesy pasta dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the bake in individual ramekins for a personalized touch that feels extra special. Alternatively, layer the pasta bake in a clear casserole dish to showcase its inviting layers of cheese, broccoli, and pesto sauce—it’s almost too pretty to cover with a spoon!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe stores wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container to maintain freshness and moisture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the pasta bake either before or after baking. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly again, usually about 15-20 minutes. You can also use a microwave for a quicker option, but the oven method helps keep the top crispy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, feel free to substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just be sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t become mushy after baking.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
You can swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use vegan cheese substitutes. Keep in mind the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.
Can I add other vegetables to this pasta bake?
Definitely! Spinach, peas, or roasted bell peppers all work beautifully as additions or swaps for broccoli. They add color and nutrition while complementing the pesto flavor.
How spicy is the recipe if I add crushed red pepper flakes?
The optional red pepper flakes add just a gentle heat that wakes up the richness of the dish without overpowering it. You can easily adjust the amount to suit your preferred spice level.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and bake later?
Yes! You can assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the warm, satisfying hug of the Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe to bring comfort and joy to your dinner table. It’s approachable, packed with delightful flavors, and versatile enough to suit many tastes and occasions. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe—it often becomes a beloved favorite for good reason, blending wholesome ingredients with that special homemade touch.
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Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a comforting Italian-American casserole featuring tender penne pasta, juicy chicken, and steamed broccoli tossed in a luxurious basil pesto cream sauce. Baked until golden and bubbly, this dish offers a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and herbaceous flavors, making it an ideal easy weeknight dinner or meal prep option.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets (lightly steamed)
Meat
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
Sauce
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella or Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in salted water until al dente, typically about 9-11 minutes. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make Pesto Cream Sauce: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in 1½ cups heavy cream and 1 cup basil pesto, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, shredded or diced chicken, steamed broccoli florets, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Pour the pesto cream sauce over this mixture and stir gently until everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the top. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the casserole is hot throughout, bubbly, and the cheese on top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pasta bake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and make it easier to portion.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep and added flavor.
- Swap broccoli for spinach or peas for variation and to suit your taste.
- For a lighter dish, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce richness and calories.
- To make gluten-free, use gluten-free penne pasta.
