Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is a delightful comfort food that combines tender chicken, vibrant pesto, and hearty pasta into one delicious dish. This recipe is perfect for families looking for a wholesome meal that’s easy to make and even better to share. The combination of creamy sauce and fresh vegetables adds depth to every bite, making it a favorite at any table. If you love exploring pasta dishes, this Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, especially as the days get cooler and you crave something warm and filling. For a similar yet unique flavor, you might also enjoy this grilled chicken and asparagus pesto pasta.

Ingredients & Equipment

Ingredients

12 oz. pasta of choice (I suggest a tube-shaped pasta such as rigatoni, mezzi rigatoni, or tortiglioni)
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
1 Tbsp. Italian seasoning
1 tsp. paprika
1 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1 to 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
3/4 cup minced shallots
4 garlic cloves, minced
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
1 cup jarred roasted tomatoes, thinly sliced (or ½ cup julienned sun-dried tomatoes)
2 to 3 handfuls fresh baby spinach
1/2 cup pesto
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, divided
3 to 4 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, torn
Chopped fresh basil for garnish

Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a large oven-safe skillet for sautéing and mixing, a measuring cup for liquids, a mixing bowl, and a spatula or wooden spoon for stirring. A blender can be useful if you prefer to make your own pesto. You may also find Baked Ranch Chicken useful.

Step-by-Step Instructions (with Tips)

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling the pasta in a large pot of generously salted water. Cook until just shy of al dente, ensuring it will finish cooking in the oven. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the cooking water for later use. You may also find Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast With Mozzarella Cheese useful.
Prepare the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed chicken with 2 tablespoons of oil from the jar of roasted tomatoes or olive oil, Italian seasoning, paprika, ¾ tsp. of salt, and ½ tsp. of black pepper. Let it marinate while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. You may also find Bang Bang Chicken Bake useful.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and sauté until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink, about 8 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a bowl and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced shallots. If the pan is dry, drizzle in a little more olive oil. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes, then add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute.
Incorporate the Vegetables: Stir in the roasted tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes and add the fresh spinach. Sauté just until the spinach begins to wilt, around 2 to 3 minutes, then season with the remaining ½ tsp. of salt.
Combine the Sauce: Add the pesto and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well to combine, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add the Pasta: Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, along with ½ cup of the reserved pasta water. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta. If it seems too thick, gradually add more of the reserved pasta water until you achieve a creamy consistency.
Cheese it Up: Stir in 1/3 cup of the freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and return the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Mix until everything is well combined.
Broil for Perfection: Preheat your oven broiler to HIGH. Scatter the torn mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmigiano-Reggiano over the top of the pasta. Transfer the skillet under the broiler and broil for 3 to 4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Finally, remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh basil, and serve hot.

For those looking for a hearty side, consider pairing this dish with a salad or some garlic bread.

Storage, Freezing & Make-Ahead Tips

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake; simply wrap the dish tightly in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven until warmed through.

For make-ahead options, you can prepare the entire dish, but hold back on broiling it until you’re ready to enjoy your meal. This way, you’ll have fresh, melty cheese just before serving.

How to Use / Serve This Dish

Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a standalone dish or with a fresh side salad for added crunch and nutrition. If you’re looking to mix it up a bit, try adding seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkling in some fresh chili flakes can elevate the taste experience.

This dish is also great for serving at gatherings, as it can easily be portioned out and reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While tube-shaped pasta works best in this recipe, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

What can I substitute for the chicken?

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using chickpeas or a mix of your favorite vegetables instead of chicken.

How long does leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Just make sure to store it properly, and it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake brings together a medley of flavors and textures that evoke warmth and comfort, making it a beloved addition to any meal plan. Whether you’re serving it up for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, the satisfaction it brings will have everyone coming back for more. For additional inspiration on this delicious dish, check out these two resources: Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake – Girl With The Iron Cast and Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake – Dishing Out Health. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try, and feel free to share your experience!