Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake That Everyone Will Love
This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting dish that transforms easy-to-find ingredients into a meal everyone will love.
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Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 500kcal
Equipment
- Large pot
- large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces penne pasta Cook until al dente.
For the Chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Use for sautéing.
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced Adds protein and heartiness.
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhances all flavors.
- 1 teaspoon pepper Balances richness.
For the Vegetables
- 3 cups fresh spinach Adds color and freshness.
For the Sauce
- 1 cup basil pesto Provides aromatic flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream Adds richness.
For the Cheese
- 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese, divided For topping.
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese Provides nutty depth.
Optional Kick
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes For a bit of spice.
Instructions
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Mix it in with the cooked chicken.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine basil pesto and heavy cream. Stir in sautéed chicken, wilted spinach, and penne pasta. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish, transfer pasta mixture, and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
This dish can be meal prepped and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers throughout the week.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 500kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 100mg | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 700mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1000IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 300mg | Iron: 2mg