Name: One Pan Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake That’s Family-Approved
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced; 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta; 1 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup grated parmesan; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional: spinach, cherry tomatoes, red pepper flakes

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If there’s one meal that brings together cozy comfort and bold Italian flavors in under an hour, it’s this one pan creamy chicken pesto pasta bake.

One pan creamy chicken pesto pasta bake in rustic dish

It’s the kind of dish that turns any weeknight into something special—hearty, cheesy, and bubbling with basil goodness. Whether you’re trying to please picky eaters or feed a hungry crowd, this creamy pasta bake does the trick with minimal cleanup. In this article, I’ll guide you through my go-to recipe, highlight the best pesto picks, and share make-ahead tips. Ready to dig into a simple yet flavorful dish your whole family will devour?

My Story Behind One Pan Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake

There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when you’re scrambling for dinner ideas and somehow, everything falls perfectly into place. That’s exactly how I stumbled upon my now-beloved one pan creamy chicken pesto pasta bake. It was one of those evenings when time was short and the pantry wasn’t exactly full. I had some cooked chicken, half a jar of pesto, a lonely block of mozzarella, and a bag of pasta. And from that came a dish so satisfying, I’ve never stopped making it.

As a busy mom and passionate home cook, I’m always searching for recipes that strike the right balance between flavor and simplicity. This pesto chicken pasta bake does that effortlessly. Everything comes together in one oven-safe pan—juicy chicken, al dente pasta, creamy sauce, and the fresh, herbaceous punch of basil pesto. No extra dishes, no complicated steps—just honest, comforting food.

What makes it even more special for me is the way it fills the kitchen with the aroma of garlic, basil, and baked cheese. It’s become a family favorite that I serve on nights when I want something hearty but low-effort. And it’s the kind of meal that tastes just as good the next day—if there’s any left! Over time, I’ve tried it with different pestos, cheeses, and even tossed in seasonal veggies like cherry tomatoes or spinach, and each variation brings something new to the table.

Building the Perfect One Pan Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake

When it comes to a great one pan creamy chicken pesto pasta bake, your ingredients make all the difference. Let’s start with the chicken—whether it’s freshly cooked or repurposed from leftovers, tender, seasoned chicken breast or thighs work beautifully here. I often roast a few extra chicken breasts at the start of the week just for this dish. It’s a time-saving trick that makes this recipe come together in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients for one pan creamy chicken pesto pasta bake

For pasta, short shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini hold the sauce well and ensure every bite is packed with flavor. When choosing a pesto, go for one with a vibrant green color and visible basil flecks. Homemade pesto is always best if you have the time, but a high-quality store-bought version like refrigerated Genovese pesto works wonderfully too. Its rich, garlicky notes and nutty depth are what give this pasta bake its signature flavor.

The real star, though, is the creamy element. I use a mix of heavy cream and chicken broth to create a luscious sauce that blends perfectly with the pesto. Topped with shredded mozzarella and a bit of parmesan, it melts into a bubbly, golden crust that’s hard to resist.

To keep things streamlined, the dish comes together entirely in one oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven. Cook the pasta just shy of al dente, toss in your sauce and chicken, top with cheese, and bake. One pan, one bake, zero stress.

Want an easy and healthy recipe? You might love this Healthy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad

Customizations for Every Palate

One of the things I love most about this one pan creamy chicken pesto pasta bake is how flexible it is. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or trying to clean out the fridge, you can customize it endlessly without compromising on taste.

Want to sneak in some veggies? Spinach, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or roasted red peppers are all excellent options. Just stir them in with the pasta and sauce before baking. If you’re after a little crunch or contrast, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or even crushed red pepper flakes on top adds a fun twist. Don’t have chicken? You can swap in turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even Italian sausage for a bolder, heartier bite.

Stirring chicken and pasta into creamy pesto sauce

Cheese lovers might want to layer in some ricotta or even a hint of goat cheese between pasta layers for extra creaminess. And for those who love a golden crust, adding a mix of breadcrumbs and parmesan on top before baking gives it a satisfying texture.

This dish also scores big on convenience. If you’re using leftover chicken, it cuts your prep time in half. You can assemble the entire bake a day ahead, store it covered in the fridge, and pop it in the oven when you’re ready. After baking, leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Serving of creamy chicken pesto pasta bake with basil

To reheat, a quick 25-minute trip in a 350°F oven will restore its melty texture and vibrant flavor. You can also microwave individual portions, though I recommend adding a splash of milk or cream to keep things from drying out.

FAQs & Final Thoughts on One Pan Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake

What is the best pesto to use in pasta bake?
For maximum flavor, use a fresh Genovese pesto made with quality basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan, and olive oil. Store-bought refrigerated options often outperform shelf-stable jars. Brands like Buitoni or Kirkland Signature (from Costco) deliver bright, herbaceous flavor. Homemade pesto is even better if you have fresh basil on hand.

Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely. This one pan creamy chicken pesto pasta bake is a perfect way to transform leftover grilled, roasted, or even rotisserie chicken. Just shred or cube it and stir it in with the pasta and sauce before baking. It saves time and adds that just-cooked flavor when baked with the pesto and cheese.

How do I store and reheat chicken pesto pasta bake?
Let the bake cool completely, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the pasta with foil and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes. You can also microwave single servings—add a splash of milk or cream for moisture.

What vegetables go well in a chicken pesto pasta?
Spinach, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, zucchini, and mushrooms pair beautifully with pesto. Sauté them lightly or add them raw (for tender veggies) before baking. They bring color, texture, and added nutrition to your dish.

This one pan creamy chicken pesto pasta bake is a staple for good reason—it’s rich, satisfying, and flexible. Whether you’re making dinner after a long day or prepping ahead for guests, it’s always a hit. Serve it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to become a favorite.