Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe

Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or special gatherings. This dish combines tender chicken pieces with vibrant green broccoli, all enveloped in a rich, creamy pesto sauce that tantalizes your taste buds. The delightful blend of flavors makes each bite unforgettable. Not only is this recipe simple to follow, but it also allows for customization based on your preferences. Whether you’re feeding a large family or craving a cozy dinner for two, this pasta bake will impress everyone at the table. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies while still satisfying your cravings for hearty comfort food.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
• Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
• How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
• Tips and Tricks
• How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
• Make Ahead and Storage
• Suggestions for Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
• Avoid Overcooking the Pasta
• Use Fresh Ingredients
• Don’t Forget to Season
• Baking Time Matters
• FAQs
• What can I substitute for chicken in Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake?
• Can I make Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake ahead of time?
• How do I store leftovers from Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake?
• Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?
• Conclusion
• 📖 Recipe Card

You’ll find that the preparation is quick and straightforward. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort involved, you can serve up a delicious meal in no time. This recipe is not only tasty; it also offers flexibility in terms of ingredient choices. You can swap out the chicken for other proteins or use different vegetables based on what you have on hand. Get ready to dive into this creamy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
• Fresh Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli adds a nice crunch; you can substitute with frozen if needed but adjust cooking times accordingly
• Pasta of Your Choice: I recommend penne or rotini as they hold sauce well; cook according to package instructions until al dente
• Creamy Pesto Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade — basil pesto works wonderfully here; feel free to add more garlic or cheese if desired
• Shredded Cheese: Mozzarella or cheddar adds creaminess when melted; sprinkle generously on top before baking

For the Sauce:

• Heavy Cream: For that rich creaminess that binds everything together; substitute with half-and-half if you’d like a lighter option

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

Season boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté them until cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Remove from heat and let cool before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Mix Ingredients Together

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sautéed chicken pieces, fresh broccoli florets, heavy cream, and pesto sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish (9×13-inch works well) and spread evenly across the bottom.

Step 6: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top of the pasta mixture before placing it in the oven.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
• Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight

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How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

This Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

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Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and broccoli in advance. Cook them, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Also, you can mix the pasta and pesto sauce ahead of time, keeping them separate until you’re ready to bake.
• Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, which can extend its shelf life to about three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta bake in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes. For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for about 3-5 minutes or until warmed through.

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Suggestions for Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Avoid Overcooking the Pasta

When preparing your Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake, it’s crucial to avoid overcooking the pasta. Al dente pasta holds its shape better and absorbs the creamy pesto sauce without becoming mushy. Cook the pasta for about two minutes less than the package instructions suggest. This ensures that when you bake it with the chicken and broccoli, it won’t turn into a soggy mess. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so starting with slightly undercooked pasta is key to achieving that perfect texture.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is essential for a vibrant flavor in your Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake. Fresh basil for pesto, tender broccoli florets, and juicy chicken breasts elevate this dish significantly. While dried herbs may seem convenient, they lack the brightness and depth of flavor that fresh herbs offer. Additionally, using fresh garlic instead of powder can enhance the aroma and overall taste of your dish. Investing in quality ingredients will not only improve flavors but also give your meal a more appealing appearance.

Don’t Forget to Season

A common mistake in preparing Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is neglecting proper seasoning. Season each layer of your dish—chicken, broccoli, and pasta—with salt and pepper as you prepare them. This ensures that every bite is flavorful. Many home cooks make the error of only seasoning at the end; however, layering flavors is critical in creating a well-balanced dish. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors even more.

Baking Time Matters

Baking time plays a significant role in your Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake’s final texture and flavor. If you bake it too long, you risk drying out the chicken or overcooking the broccoli, making it lose its vibrant color and crunch. Aim for 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Check for doneness by ensuring that everything is heated through and bubbling at the edges. You want that golden-brown top without compromising the tenderness of your ingredients.

FAQs

What can I substitute for chicken in Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake?

If you’re looking for alternatives to chicken in your Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake, several options are available. Tofu or tempeh can provide a great vegetarian option while maintaining protein content. For those who prefer seafood, shrimp or salmon would add fantastic flavor and pair beautifully with pesto. You can also consider using chickpeas or white beans for added texture while remaining plant-based. Whichever substitute you choose, ensure that it complements the creamy pesto sauce to keep that delightful harmony of flavors.

Can I make Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake ahead of time?

Yes! Preparing your Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake ahead of time is not only convenient but also allows flavors to meld together beautifully. Assemble all ingredients as per your recipe instructions but refrain from baking immediately. Instead, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes beforehand to bring it closer to room temperature before popping it into the oven.

How do I store leftovers from Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake?

Storing leftovers from your Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is simple! Allow any remaining portions to cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container. You can keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage—up to three months works well here too! When reheating, use an oven set at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly warmed through; this method helps retain moisture compared to using a microwave.

Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using store-bought pesto can save you time when making your Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake while still delivering delicious results. Look for high-quality brands made with fresh basil, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and salt; these ingredients will ensure rich flavors similar to homemade versions. However, if you’re feeling adventurous or have extra time on hand, making homemade pesto can elevate your dish even further by providing a fresher taste tailored specifically to your preferences.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, crafting a delicious Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake requires careful attention during preparation stages. Avoid common pitfalls like overcooking pasta or forgetting to season ingredients properly—these mistakes could hinder achieving optimal flavor profiles in your dish. Utilizing fresh ingredients enhances both taste and presentation significantly while respecting baking times ensures everything comes together harmoniously without losing texture quality. Finally, don’t hesitate to personalize this recipe according to dietary preferences by choosing suitable alternatives! Enjoy creating this comforting meal that brings family together around one delectable table.