Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake

Name: Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6.0
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked pasta; 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded; 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup creamy pesto sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience a delightful blend of flavors with this Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and al dente pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy pesto sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, this bake is sure to satisfy cravings. Serve it warm and watch it disappear!

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2025-11-28T10:13:35.309Z

This pasta bake has quickly become a favorite in our household. The creamy pesto sauce brings all the flavors together, and the combination of chicken and broccoli makes it a balanced meal.

A Comforting Meal

When it comes to family dinners, comfort food reigns supreme. This Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake simplifies meal prep while serving up a hearty dish that warms both the heart and stomach. With layers of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant broccoli, every bite offers a satisfying combination of flavors and textures. It's the kind of meal that invites everyone to gather around the table and enjoy quality time together.

The creamy pesto sauce binds all the elements together, adding a rich and savory depth that elevates this dish beyond typical weeknight fare. This is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings comfort and contentment, making it a perfect choice for chilly evenings or festive occasions.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Another fantastic aspect of this pasta bake is its meal prep potential. You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making it an ideal option for busy schedules or planned gatherings. After assembling the ingredients in the baking dish, you can cover it with foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just pop it into the oven when you're ready, and you'll have a delicious meal with minimal effort.

This method not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even tastier dish. Whether you pack it for lunch the next day or serve it to guests, this pasta bake promises to impress.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best features of this Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. For instance, substitute the chicken with turkey or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini, allowing you to enjoy this dish in multiple variations without getting bored.

Additionally, the creamy pesto sauce can be homemade or store-bought, giving you the flexibility to control the flavors and ingredients. This adaptability ensures that each time you make this pasta bake, it can be a unique culinary adventure.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked pasta
1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup creamy pesto sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything on hand before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your pasta bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, and creamy pesto sauce until well combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.

Add Cheese

Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch of flavor, consider serving this pasta bake with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of leafy greens with a light vinaigrette will complement the richness of the dish perfectly. You could also offer toasted garlic bread, which adds a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy layers of the pasta bake.

Don't forget about beverages! A light white wine or sparkling water with lemon can enhance the meal experience, creating a well-rounded dining atmosphere that your guests will appreciate.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is often the case with this popular dish), they can be stored easily. Allow the pasta bake to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

When it comes to reheating, the oven is your best friend. Simply cover the dish with foil and warm it at 325°F (163°C) until heated through. This method helps maintain the cheese's creaminess while preventing the pasta from becoming dry.

Nutritional Benefits

This Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake not only delights the taste buds but also offers several nutritional advantages. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, while broccoli provides a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber that supports digestive health.

Additionally, the whole grain pasta option can add extra fiber and nutrients, making this dish not only satisfying but also nourishing. Enjoying a hearty meal that fuels your body is a win-win situation!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works great for this recipe.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it just before serving.