Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe: The Ultimate Creamy and Cheesy Comfort Meal
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the richness of pasta with the freshness of basil pesto, the Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole is your new go-to recipe. This creamy, cheesy, and satisfying casserole is a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.
What Is Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole?
The Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole is a baked pasta dish that brings together tender pieces of chicken, al dente penne pasta, creamy sauce, and fragrant pesto. The result is a golden, bubbling casserole that’s full of flavor, texture, and warmth — perfect for any occasion.
This recipe combines the bold, herby notes of Italian pesto with the comforting creaminess of melted cheese and pasta, creating a balanced dish that’s indulgent yet fresh.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need:
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12 oz penne pasta (or any short pasta like rigatoni or rotini)
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
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1 cup basil pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
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1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
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1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How to Make Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil the penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, pesto sauce, heavy cream, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil, add the cooked pasta, and mix it with the pesto chicken mixture. Spread evenly and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole with:
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A side of garlic bread or focaccia
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A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
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A light glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon
This dish also makes excellent leftovers — just store it in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Recipe Tips and Variations
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Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
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Substitute Greek yogurt or light cream for a healthier option.
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Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition.
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Top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and easy to prepare
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Great for meal prep and family dinners
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Rich, creamy, and full of Italian flavor
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Customizable to suit your taste
Conclusion
The Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish that captures the heart of Italian-inspired cooking. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something cozy and delicious, this recipe is sure to impress.
Warm, cheesy, and bursting with pesto goodness — it’s a comfort food classic you’ll make again and again.
Keywords: Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole recipe, creamy pesto pasta, baked chicken casserole, easy pasta bake, Italian comfort food