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 for the week! With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s bound to become a favorite for all occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Comfort Food: The blend of basil pesto, cream, and cheese creates an irresistible taste that comforts the soul.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients or add your favorite vegetables to customize this dish to your liking.
- Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and familiar flavors, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Great for Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or leftovers.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly without crowding, ensuring perfect texture.
- Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and vegetables, allowing for even cooking and flavor development.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly before baking.
- Baking dish: A good quality dish ensures even heat distribution while baking.
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
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
For Topping
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¼ 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: Sauté the Broccoli
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the broccoli florets. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender but still bright green. Stir in the minced garlic. Cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and basil pesto until smooth.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, sautéed broccoli, and creamy pesto sauce. Toss until everything is well coated.
Step 6: Assemble the Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°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 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 Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making it a satisfying meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with arugula, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta bake perfectly.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a nice contrast to the warm, cheesy bake.
Add a Crunchy Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted slices of garlic bread add a flavorful crunch and are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks can serve as an excellent side for dipping into the delicious pesto sauce.
Offer Extra Cheese
- Parmesan Topping: Provide extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side for guests who want a little more cheesy goodness on their pasta bake.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or goat cheese can enhance the meal’s overall flavor profile.
How to Perfect Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
Perfecting your Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake can elevate it from great to extraordinary. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.
- Use Quality Pesto: Fresh or high-quality store-bought pesto will enhance the flavor of the dish significantly.
- Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure that your chicken is cooked completely before combining it with other ingredients for safety and taste.
- Al Dente Pasta: Cooking pasta until al dente prevents it from becoming mushy during baking.
- Add More Veggies: Consider adding bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and vibrant color.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different cheeses can create a richer flavor; try adding fontina or gouda for variety.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to cool slightly after baking helps set the layers, making servings cleaner.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
Complementing your Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake with delectable side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options.
- Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy outside and fluffy inside, these potatoes provide a hearty side that pairs beautifully with creamy dishes.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the pasta bake.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a healthy contrast while providing protein.
- Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic reduction make for an easy finger food option.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with olive oil make a flavorful addition that complements the savory flavors of the bake.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, which brightens up each bite of pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can help you create the best creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken and pasta can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper during cooking.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta for too long will make it mushy in the bake. Aim for al dente according to package instructions.
- Using low-quality pesto: A subpar pesto can dull the dish’s flavor. Opt for a good-quality store-bought version or make your own.
- Neglecting to grease the baking dish: Failing to grease the dish may cause sticking. Use a light coating of olive oil or cooking spray before adding ingredients.
- Not letting it cool before serving: Cutting into the dish too soon may cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool for a few minutes for better slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
- Freeze in a well-sealed, freezer-safe container.
- It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm throughout.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of cream or water to a skillet, heat over low, and stir until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make a vegetarian version of Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake?
You can easily swap out chicken for chickpeas or tofu, ensuring you still have protein. Keep all other ingredients the same.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or bowtie, for variety.
How can I customize my Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake?
Add additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or replace mozzarella with another cheese like cheddar for a different flavor profile.
How long does it take to prepare Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake?
The total time is around 40 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it great for weeknight meals!
Final Thoughts
The creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize this dish with your favorite ingredients or adapt it based on what you have at home. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
Indulge in a delightful Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake that perfectly balances rich flavors and comfort. This dish features tender chicken breast, fresh broccoli, and pasta enveloped in a creamy basil pesto sauce, all topped with melty mozzarella cheese. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a go-to choice for meal prep or satisfying dinners. Your loved ones will enjoy every cheesy bite of this comforting casserole.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 10 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 pound diced chicken breast
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook seasoned chicken until browned; set aside.
- Sauté broccoli in the same skillet until tender; add minced garlic.
- Whisk heavy cream and pesto in a bowl until smooth.
- Combine cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, and sauce in a mixing bowl.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with cheeses.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
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