Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot quite like a Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with Italian flavors, this dish is a surefire way to bring the whole family to the table. Plus, it’s made in just one pan less cleanup, more flavor!

I remember the first time I made this pasta bake, my husband declared it the best thing on the blog after just one bite! It’s the kind of recipe that makes even weeknight dinners feel special. And with ingredients like DeLallo Simply Pesto and Tortiglioni Pasta, you’ll get that authentic Italian taste without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake Recipe is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights and special gatherings. It’s packed with lean protein, fresh spinach, and flavorful roasted tomatoes, making it both hearty and wholesome. Plus, it’s super versatile swap chicken for plant-based protein or gluten-free pasta to suit your preferences. Best of all, this one-pan chicken pesto pasta bake is freezer-friendly, allowing you to enjoy leftovers anytime. With its rich garlic-pesto sauce and melty mozzarella topping, your family will be coming back for seconds. Quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 oz. Tortiglioni Pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
• 1 lb. Chicken Breasts, cubed
• 1 Tbsp. Italian Seasoning
• 1 tsp. Paprika
• 1/4 tsp. Kosher Salt, divided
• 1/2 tsp. Black Pepper
• 1-2 Tbsp. Olive Oil
• 3/4 cup Shallots, minced
• 4 Garlic Cloves, minced
• Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes
• 1 cup Roasted Red Tomatoes, sliced
• 2-3 handfuls Fresh Spinach
• 1/2 cup Pesto
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
• 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated
• 3-4 oz. Fresh Mozzarella, torn
• Chopped Fresh Basil for garnish

For detailed ingredient measurements and instructions, visit the full recipe card below.

How to Make Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

1: Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

2: Season and Sauté the Chicken

• Toss chicken with olive oil, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Sauté in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat until cooked through (about 8 minutes).
• Transfer to a plate and set aside.

3: Sauté the Aromatics

• Add shallots and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
• Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute.
• Add roasted tomatoes and spinach, cooking until spinach wilts.

4: Combine the Sauce and Pasta

• Stir in pesto and heavy cream.
• Add cooked pasta and reserved water, stirring until the sauce thickens.
• Return chicken to the skillet and mix with 1/3 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano.

5: Bake to Perfection

• Top with mozzarella and remaining cheese.
• Broil on high for 3-4 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
• Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot!

Serving Suggestions

This Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to complete your meal. Here are some ideas:

• Garlic Bread: A classic choice to soak up every drop of that creamy garlic-pesto sauce.
• Fresh Green Salad: Light and crisp to balance the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try asparagus or bell peppers for added color and flavor.
• Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the vibrant pesto notes.

Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a cozy, restaurant-worthy dinner at home!

Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for white beans or plant-based chicken.
• Gluten-Free: Use chickpea or brown rice pasta.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese.
• Add Some Heat: Sprinkle extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
• Chicken and Vegetables Skillet
• One Pan Balsamic Chicken and Veggies

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake Recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. With its hearty ingredients, easy one-pan preparation, and irresistible flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and discover the magic of homemade simple chicken pesto pasta bake

If you’re looking for a family-friendly, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to make, this Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is your answer.

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