Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Delight in a comforting Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake, where tender chicken breast, vibrant broccoli, and pasta come together in a luscious pesto sauce, topped with bubbling mozzarella cheese. This dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep throughout the week! The unique combination of creamy pesto and fresh ingredients makes it a standout choice for any occasion, whether it s a cozy family night or a quick weekday meal.

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Why You ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect even for beginner cooks.
Flavorful Dish: The rich flavors of pesto, garlic, and melted cheese create a delightful taste experience that everyone will love.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out chicken for other proteins or add more vegetables based on your preferences.
One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy less cleanup with this one-pan meal that combines everything into one delicious bake.
Meal Prep Friendly: This pasta bake keeps well, making it an excellent option for leftovers or meal prepping for busy weeks.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and ensuring it reaches the right texture.
Skillet: Perfect for sautÃ©ing chicken and vegetables, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining all ingredients without spilling during preparation.
Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth creamy pesto sauce without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

10 ounces pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups broccoli florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Â¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper. Add it to the skillet. Cook until browned and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: SautÃ© the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the broccoli florets and sautÃ© for 3-4 minutes until tender but still bright green. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream and basil pesto until smooth.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, sautÃ©ed broccoli, and creamy pesto sauce. Toss until everything is well coated.

Step 6: Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 375Â°F (190Â°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 7: Bake

Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Serving a creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake is easy and enjoyable. This dish is versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your family s tastes or the occasion.

For Family Dinners

Serve with Garlic Bread: Pair your pasta bake with warm garlic bread for a comforting meal.
Add a Side Salad: A fresh garden salad adds crunch and balances the richness of the bake.

For Meal Prep

Portion into Containers: Divide the pasta bake into individual servings for quick lunches throughout the week.
Top with Extra Pesto: Drizzle some extra pesto on top before reheating for added flavor.

For Special Occasions

Garnish with Fresh Basil: Enhance presentation by garnishing each serving with freshly chopped basil.
Serve with Wine: Consider pairing this dish with a light white wine, which complements the flavors perfectly.

For Kid-Friendly Meals

Cut into Fun Shapes: Use cookie cutters to shape portioned pieces, making it fun and appealing for kids.
Offer Toppings: Set out toppings like extra cheese or olives for kids to customize their plates.

How to Perfect Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

To make your creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake even better, follow these simple tips:

Flavor Boost: Use homemade basil pesto for a fresher taste compared to store-bought versions.
Cook Al Dente Pasta: Ensure your pasta is al dente before mixing; it will hold its texture better during baking.
Use Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for enhanced creaminess and flavor.
Don t Skip the Garlic: The minced garlic in sautÃ©ed broccoli adds depth; be sure not to skip this step!
Adjust Seasoning: Taste before baking; adjust salt and pepper as needed based on your preference.
Let It Rest: Allow the bake to cool slightly after taking it out of the oven for easier serving.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Complementing your creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake with the right sides enhances the meal experience. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread: This classic side adds a crunchy texture that pairs well with cheesy dishes.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad brings freshness and tang, cutting through the creaminess of the pasta.
Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal veggies brings out their natural sweetness, making an excellent side option.
Caprese Salad: Combine fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil; this salad provides a refreshing contrast.
Antipasto Platter: Offer an assortment of cured meats, olives, and cheeses for a shareable appetizer that complements Italian flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can greatly enhance your experience making the creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Incorrect Pasta Cooking: Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture. Always cook it al dente based on package instructions for the best results.
Inaccurate Seasoning: Forgetting to season the chicken can leave your dish bland. Use enough salt and pepper during cooking to enhance flavors.
Skipping the SautÃ©: Neglecting to sautÃ© the broccoli and garlic can result in underwhelming taste. This step is crucial for developing depth in flavor.
Not Mixing Thoroughly: Failing to combine all ingredients well can lead to uneven distribution of flavors. Make sure everything is coated with the creamy pesto sauce.
Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold ingredients from the fridge to a hot mixture may affect cooking time. Allow items like heavy cream to reach room temperature for better blending.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
The creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Cool completely before freezing.
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350Â°F (175Â°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have more questions about this tasty dish, here are some common inquiries answered:

Can I use different vegetables in my Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake?

Yes! Feel free to swap broccoli for other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers based on your preferences.

How can I make my Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake healthier?

You can use whole grain pasta or add more vegetables. Consider using low-fat cream or yogurt instead of heavy cream.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne or fusilli are ideal choices as they hold sauce well, but feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.

Can I make my own pesto for the Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake?

Definitely! Homemade pesto adds a fresh touch. Blend basil, garlic, nuts, olive oil, and cheese according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

The creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake is not only comforting but also versatile. It s perfect for family dinners or meal preps throughout the week. Customize it by adding your favorite veggies or changing up the protein. Don t hesitate; give this delightful dish a try!