Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is one of my all-time favorites. It’s packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a delightful creamy pesto sauce that brings everything together in the most delicious way. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or hosting family for dinner, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

The best part? It comes together in under an hour, making it the perfect choice for those evenings when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of baking, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready to go!
• Family-friendly: With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat—perfect for busy evenings.
• Delicious leftovers: If you have any left (which is rare!), it reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pasta Bake

• Rotini or penne pasta
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Fresh broccoli florets
• Pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Cream cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken, try using diced turkey or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add extra veggies: Mix in cherry tomatoes or spinach to brighten up the dish with added nutrients.
• Change up the pasta: Use any short pasta shape like fusilli or elbow macaroni to capture all that delicious sauce.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a plant-based twist.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your pasta bake cooks evenly and comes out bubbly and golden on top.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook your rotini or penne pasta until al dente—this will help prevent it from becoming mushy during baking. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

Season your boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, cook them in olive oil until they are thoroughly cooked. Once done, chop them into bite-sized pieces. This step adds flavor and makes it easy to enjoy every bite!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, chopped chicken, fresh broccoli florets, pesto sauce, cream cheese, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined—this will create that creamy goodness throughout your bake!

Step 5: Assemble Your Bake

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. This will create a lovely cheesy crust as it bakes!

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Finally, place your baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and golden on top—just wait until that aroma fills your kitchen! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Making this dish is a breeze, but these pro tips will ensure it’s even more delightful!

• Choose the right pasta: Opting for rotini or penne helps capture more of that creamy pesto sauce, making every bite flavorful.
• Cook chicken thoroughly: Make sure your chicken is cooked through to avoid any raw spots. This not only enhances safety but also ensures that the chicken remains juicy and tender.
• Mix in fresh veggies: Adding cherry tomatoes or spinach boosts both flavor and nutrition. Fresh ingredients brighten up the dish and provide added texture.
• Bake until bubbly: Keeping an eye on your casserole during baking ensures it reaches that perfect golden-brown finish, giving you a beautiful presentation and enhancing the overall taste with caramelized edges.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the bake to sit for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven lets flavors meld together beautifully, making each serving even more delicious.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Serving this delightful pasta bake is as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your meal presentation.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of torn basil leaves adds a pop of color and a fresh aroma that complements the pesto beautifully.
• Lemon zest: Grating a bit of lemon zest over the top brings a refreshing brightness that cuts through the creaminess of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, making it an ideal companion for your casserole.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta bake while adding crunch and freshness.
• Steamed asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add a touch of elegance to your meal and pair wonderfully with both pesto and chicken flavors.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots provide additional nutrients and vibrant colors to your dinner table.

Now you’re all set to prepare this mouthwatering Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake! Enjoy sharing this comforting dish with family and friends—everyone will be coming back for seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is not only a delicious meal but also an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or use a large dish wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Label and date, then freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat leftovers in a microwave-safe dish or the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• Stir occasionally while reheating to ensure even warming.

FAQs

Got questions? No worries! Here are some common queries about the Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake.

Can I use different pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! While rotini or penne works great, feel free to swap in any short pasta shape you prefer. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed!

How can I make this Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You might also want to include some chickpeas for added protein!

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it a day beforehand, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake a try! It’s such a comforting dish that brings together flavors your family will love. Enjoy making it as much as I enjoy sharing it with you. Happy cooking!