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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

A comforting and hearty pasta bake with creamy pesto sauce, juicy chicken, and a cheesy topping perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz Pasta Any shape can be used, such as penne or fusilli.
  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken Shredded or diced, rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Softened for easy mixing.
  • 1 cup Pesto Homemade or store-bought.
  • 3 cups Fresh Spinach Can substitute with other veggies if desired.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced for flavor enhancement.
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheese For the topping, use mozzarella or a cheese blend.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cooked chicken, cream cheese, pesto, and garlic. Stir until everything is well coated.
  4. Add the fresh spinach and half of the shredded cheese to the mixture, stirring gently to combine.
  5. Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish, evenly spreading it out.
  6. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Pro tips: For a deeper flavor, use homemade pesto. Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrients. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze before baking for up to 2 months.