Cheesy Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Everyone Loves

Name: Cheesy Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Everyone Loves
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: Pasta (penne or fusilli): 400 g (14 oz); Chicken breast, boneless and skinless: 500 g (1.1 lb), cubed; Olive oil: 2 tablespoons; Garlic cloves: 3, minced; Heavy cream: 360 ml (1½ cups); Cream cheese: 120 g (4 oz), softened; Basil pesto: 120 g (½ cup); Mozzarella cheese, shredded: 200 g (2 cups); Parmesan cheese, grated: 60 g (½ cup); Salt: 1 teaspoon; Black pepper: ½ teaspoon; Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon

Author: Michelle Davis

Published: 29 December 2025

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There are certain meals that feel like a warm embrace the moment they come out of the oven, and this Cheesy Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is one of them. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table without being called twice, perfect for cozy family dinners, relaxed weekends, or even casual gatherings with friends. Inspired by the comforting casseroles many of us grew up with and the fresh, herby flavors of classic pesto, this recipe brings together creamy textures and bold flavors in a way that feels both nostalgic and exciting.

This pasta bake was born from the idea of turning a simple weeknight chicken and pasta dinner into something extra special. By layering tender chicken, al dente pasta, rich cream, vibrant pesto, and plenty of cheese, you get a dish that’s satisfying, crowd-pleasing, and surprisingly easy to prepare. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular request in your home.

Why This Cheesy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake Is So Popular

One of the biggest reasons this recipe is so loved is its balance. The creaminess never feels heavy, the pesto adds freshness and depth, and the cheese creates that irresistible golden topping everyone craves. It’s also incredibly adaptable. You can prepare it ahead of time, bake it when needed, and even enjoy leftovers that taste just as good the next day.

Families love it because it’s mild enough for picky eaters yet flavorful enough for adults. Home cooks appreciate how straightforward it is, using simple ingredients that are easy to find. Most importantly, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that works for everything from busy weeknights to shared meals and potlucks.

Ingredients for Cheesy Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

To make this comforting dish, you’ll need the following ingredients. All measurements are included to ensure consistent results every time.

Pasta (penne or fusilli): 400 g (14 oz)
Chicken breast, boneless and skinless: 500 g (1.1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Garlic cloves: 3, finely minced
Heavy cream: 360 ml (1½ cups)
Cream cheese: 120 g (4 oz), softened
Basil pesto: 120 g (½ cup)
Mozzarella cheese, shredded: 200 g (2 cups)
Parmesan cheese, grated: 60 g (½ cup)
Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
Fresh basil (optional): for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add a generous amount of salt to the water—this is essential for properly seasoning the pasta from the inside out. Add the pasta (penne or fusilli work best because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce) and cook according to the package instructions until just al dente. This usually means the pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite in the center. Avoid overcooking at this stage, as the pasta will continue to soften while baking in the oven. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside. Do not rinse it, as the starch on the surface helps the sauce cling better later.

2. Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is warm and shimmering, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Season them evenly with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to ensure every bite is flavorful. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to develop a light golden color, then stir occasionally. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Properly cooked chicken should be juicy and tender, not dry. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and set the chicken aside, keeping it nearby for easy combining later.

3. Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

Using the same skillet adds extra depth of flavor, as it captures the savory bits left behind from the chicken. Return the skillet to medium-low heat and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, followed by the softened cream cheese. Whisk gently and continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. This step creates the rich base of the dish. Once smooth, add the basil pesto and stir until fully incorporated, resulting in a beautifully green, velvety sauce with a fresh, aromatic flavor.

4. Combine Everything

With the sauce ready, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy pesto sauce. Take your time with this step to ensure even distribution, as this guarantees consistent flavor throughout the dish. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding a pinch of salt or pepper to suit your preference. At this stage, the pasta should already be delicious, even before baking.

5. Assemble the Pasta Bake

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) so it’s ready when you are. Lightly grease a baking dish with a small amount of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Transfer the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top, followed by an even layer of grated Parmesan. This combination creates a perfectly melted, golden topping with just the right amount of stretch and savory flavor.

6. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. As it cooks, the sauce will bubble gently and the cheese will melt into a beautifully golden crust. When the top is lightly browned and the edges are bubbling, remove the dish from the oven. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This short resting time allows the sauce to settle, making it easier to serve while ensuring each portion holds together beautifully.

Tips for the Best Pasta Bake

Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente texture is key.
Let the bake rest briefly after the oven so it sets nicely when serving.
For extra creaminess, add an additional 60 ml (¼ cup) of cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Absolutely. This Cheesy Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is an excellent make-ahead dish, making it ideal for busy schedules or planned gatherings. You can assemble the entire dish, including the sauce, pasta, chicken, and cheese topping, then cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook it, let the dish sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes, then bake as directed. You may need to add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through. Preparing it in advance actually allows the flavors to meld together even more, resulting in an even richer taste.

2. What type of pesto works best for this recipe?

Classic basil pesto works beautifully in this recipe because it provides a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the creamy sauce and melted cheese. Store-bought pesto is perfectly fine and convenient, but if you have homemade pesto on hand, it can elevate the flavor even further. When choosing a pesto, look for one with a bright green color and a balanced taste that isn’t overly oily or salty. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the pesto slightly and add a bit more cream to balance it out.

3. Can I freeze cheesy pesto chicken pasta bake?

Yes, this dish freezes very well, which makes it great for meal prep. To freeze, assemble the pasta bake in a freezer-safe dish but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to cook it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as instructed. You can also bake it straight from frozen, but you’ll need to increase the baking time and cover it loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.

4. How do I keep the pasta bake from drying out?

The key to preventing dryness is maintaining enough sauce and not overbaking the dish. Make sure the pasta is well coated in the creamy pesto sauce before baking. If you notice that the top is browning too quickly in the oven, you can loosely cover it with foil for the remaining baking time. Using cream cheese and heavy cream also helps retain moisture, ensuring that every bite stays rich and satisfying even after reheating leftovers.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. Steamed vegetables or roasted seasonal produce also make excellent sides, adding freshness and balance to the meal. For gatherings, serve it straight from the baking dish so everyone can enjoy that gooey, cheesy top layer.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is more than just a comforting casserole; it’s a dish that brings people together. There’s something special about pulling a bubbling, golden-topped pasta bake from the oven and watching everyone’s anticipation build. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, fragrant pesto, and perfectly melted cheese creates a harmony of flavors that feels both familiar and indulgent.

What makes this recipe truly stand out is its versatility. It fits effortlessly into busy weeknights, yet it’s impressive enough for sharing with guests. It can be customized, prepared ahead, frozen for later, or enjoyed fresh from the oven. Every forkful delivers comfort, warmth, and satisfaction, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s reliable, crowd-pleasing, and packed with flavor, this pasta bake deserves a place in your regular rotation. Once you serve it, don’t be surprised if it becomes one of those recipes everyone asks for by name.