The Ultimate Comfort Food Experience Awaits
Ever walked into a kitchen, your stomach rumbling, and caught a whiff of something delicious baking? That’s the magic of Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake! This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken and pasta all enveloped in a luscious sauce, topped with bubbling cheese. It’s what dinner dreams are made of!
Why Make This Recipe
You’ll love this dish for many reasons. First, it’s super easy to make—we’re talking a simple mix and bake that even your dog could follow, if only he could reach the oven! 😂 Second, cleanup is a breeze since it’s mostly made in one dish. Lastly, it’s a family-friendly meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters. Who doesn’t want to win dinner time with minimal effort?
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff—just these basics!
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Directions
Let’s get this bake started! Follow these steps for ultimate deliciousness:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, pesto sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil and pour the pasta mixture into the dish.
- Top the mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake (Overview)
Picture this: you’re mixing cooked pasta and tender chicken with a rich pesto sauce, then layering it with cheesy goodness. Start by combining everything in a bowl—don’t hold back on the pesto, it’s the star of the show! Then, pour it into the dish, top it off with mozzarella and Parmesan, and let the oven do its thing. Pro tip: If you want that beautiful golden cheese crust, broil for a minute at the end—trust me, it’s worth it!
How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
This creamy pasta bake stands tall on its own, but if you want to jazz it up, consider adding a fresh salad on the side. Think vibrant greens, sliced cucumbers, and a splash of lemony vinaigrette. The colors and crunch will elevate your meal, making it look like you’ve just walked off a cooking show set. Be prepared for compliments galore!
How to Store Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This bake keeps well in the fridge for about 3–4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure to use airtight containers. When reheating, a quick trip in the oven at 350°F will bring back that melty cheese magic. Easy peasy!
Tips to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
- Pasta Party: Swap out the penne for any pasta you have on hand—macaroni, farfalle, or even zoodles if you’re feeling wild!
- Extra Veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or roasted bell peppers for added nutrients and color. Who said we can’t sneak in some health?
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Don’t skimp on the cheese! You can use gouda or cheddar for a fun twist on flavor.
Variations
Feeling adventurous? Try making it vegan by swapping the ricotta and mozzarella for dairy-free alternatives. Add in some sun-dried tomatoes for a flavorful twist, or a hint of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
What if I have leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I use rotisserie chicken? Definitely! In fact, it saves time and adds great flavor—perfect for quick dinners.
Give this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake a try; your belly will thank you later. Trust me, it’s a hit recipe that deserves a spot in your dinner rotation!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Pasta Bake Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded For topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For topping
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For greasing the baking dish
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, pesto sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil and pour the pasta mixture into the dish.
- Top the mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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