Description
This Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender shredded chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta tossed in a rich pesto cream sauce, then baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a perfect weeknight family meal that is easy to prepare and packed with savory Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
Pasta & Vegetables
- 1 pound dried pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini)
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta and broccoli: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Meanwhile, steam the broccoli florets in a separate pot until they are tender but still bright green.
- Prepare sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, pesto sauce, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Combine ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and shredded chicken into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything well to ensure the pasta, vegetables, and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy pesto sauce.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and heated through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake immediately while hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if preferred.
- For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add mozzarella or another melting cheese on top before baking for a cheesy crust.
- Sun-dried tomatoes can be omitted if unavailable or for a milder flavor.
- To save time, cook the chicken in advance or use rotisserie chicken.
- Fresh basil can be added as a garnish for enhanced herbal flavor.
