Indulge in the comforting flavors of a Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake that is both satisfying and simple to prepare. This dish combines succulent chicken breasts with tender broccoli florets all enveloped in a rich, creamy pesto sauce that takes everyday pasta to the next level. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delightful dish. Plus, it’s versatile; you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the chicken for another protein. Embrace the delightful combination of flavors in this creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake that will surely become a family favorite!

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

this recipe

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
• Pasta: Choose your favorite type of pasta; penne or rotini works well for holding the creamy sauce
• Fresh Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli adds texture and nutrients; steam them lightly before mixing into the bake
• Cream Cheese: This ingredient provides a rich creaminess that enhances the overall flavor of the dish
• Pesto Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade pesto to add a burst of flavor; basil pesto is a classic choice
• Shredded Cheese: A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a gooey topping that browns beautifully in the oven

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

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, steamed broccoli florets, sliced chicken breast, cream cheese, pesto sauce, half of the shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom. Top with remaining shredded cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Place in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional pesto if desired.

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 chicken in pesto overnight before cooking

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!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake in advance by cooking the chicken, boiling the pasta, and mixing them with the sauce. Store these components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days before combining and baking.
• Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers, where they can last for up to three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta bake in an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power for about 3-4 minutes.

Suggestions for Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Be Mindful of Overcooking the Pasta

One common mistake when making creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake is overcooking the pasta. Al dente pasta holds its shape better during baking, preventing a mushy texture. To avoid this, cook your pasta for about two minutes less than the package instructions suggest. This slight undercooking allows the pasta to absorb some of the sauce while baking, resulting in a deliciously creamy consistency without becoming overly soft.

Choosing the Right Pesto

Not all pesto sauces are created equal. Using a low-quality or overly oily pesto can ruin your creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake. Opt for a fresh basil pesto made from high-quality ingredients. Homemade pesto often provides a more vibrant flavor that complements the chicken and broccoli beautifully. If you are short on time, look for reputable store-bought brands that prioritize fresh ingredients rather than preservatives.

Balancing Creaminess with Fresh Ingredients

While creaminess is key to this dish, relying solely on heavy cream can lead to an unbalanced flavor profile. Incorporating fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes or spinach adds brightness and depth to your creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake. These additions not only enhance the taste but also provide nutritional benefits and color contrast, making the dish visually appealing.

Not Prepping Broccoli Properly

Properly prepping your broccoli is essential for achieving the best texture in your creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake. Avoid using large florets that can become tough after baking. Instead, chop the broccoli into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and allows the flavors of the sauce to penetrate every piece, resulting in a harmonious blend of tastes in each bite.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake?

For this recipe, short pasta varieties such as penne or fusilli work best. Their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce effectively, ensuring every bite is flavorful. You could also use rotini or farfalle if you prefer different textures. The key is to choose a pasta that captures sauce well while providing a satisfying chewiness.

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

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time! Assemble your creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake up until it’s ready to go into the oven. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve it, just pop it in the oven; you may need to add extra baking time.

How can I make my recipe healthier?

To create a healthier version of this dish, consider using whole-grain or legume-based pasta for added fiber and protein. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use lower-fat alternatives without sacrificing flavor. Lastly, increase the vegetable content by adding more greens like spinach or zucchini for additional nutrients.

Can I freeze the leftovers ?

Absolutely! Leftovers from your creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake freeze well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake until warmed through.

Conclusion

In conclusion, preparing a delightful creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake involves careful attention to detail at each step. Avoiding common mistakes such as overcooking pasta or using low-quality ingredients will significantly enhance your dish’s flavor profile. Incorporating fresh vegetables not only brightens up your meal but also adds nutritional value. By following these tips and utilizing quality ingredients, you will create a comforting dish that impresses family and friends alike while being easy enough for weeknight dinners. Enjoy this delicious bake as a staple in your recipe collection!

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Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

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• Author: Cecilia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people

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Description

Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a deliciously comforting dish that’s perfect for any family gathering or weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts, vibrant broccoli, and al dente pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy pesto sauce topped with melted cheese. It’s simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and straightforward steps that even novice cooks can follow. Not only is it versatile—allowing you to add your favorite veggies or proteins—but it also packs flavor in every bite.

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Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Pasta (penne or rotini)
• Fresh broccoli florets
• Cream cheese
• Pesto sauce (basil pesto recommended)
• Shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish.
2. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
3. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook in olive oil over medium heat until fully cooked (about 6-7 minutes per side). Slice into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a bowl, combine cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, chicken, cream cheese, pesto, half of the shredded cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to the baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: For added flavor, marinate chicken in pesto overnight before cooking. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.