Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe: A Deliciously Creamy Italian-Inspired Dish
Looking for an easy, comforting, and flavorful dinner idea? The Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole recipe is the perfect choice. With its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and aromatic pesto flavor, this baked pasta dish combines the best of Italian-inspired comfort food with the simplicity of a weeknight meal.
What Is Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole?
The Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole is a hearty pasta bake made with tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a rich basil pesto sauce. It’s finished with layers of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked until golden and bubbly. This recipe offers a wonderful balance between creamy, cheesy, and herby flavors — ideal for anyone who loves classic Italian dishes with a modern twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a few simple ingredients to make this delicious casserole:
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12 oz penne pasta (or substitute rigatoni or ziti)
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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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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh basil, for garnish
How to Make Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Cook the penne in salted water until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, pesto sauce, heavy cream, and half the mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and black pepper, then mix until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil, then add the pasta and pesto chicken mixture. Stir until evenly coated. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole with:
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Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
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A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
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Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus
This casserole is perfect for meal prep — it keeps well in the fridge for up to three days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave without losing its flavor.
Tips for Perfect Results
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Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
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For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or milk.
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Add extra veggies such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for more color and nutrition.
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If you like crunch, top the casserole with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and easy to make
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Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
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Creamy, cheesy, and full of pesto flavor
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Great for leftovers or meal prepping
Final Thoughts
The Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole recipe is everything you could want in a comfort meal — rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy topping makes it a dish you’ll want to cook again and again.
Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, this pasta casserole brings a taste of Italy straight to your table.
Keywords: Pesto Chicken Penne Casserole recipe, creamy pesto pasta, baked chicken casserole, easy pasta bake, Italian comfort food, family dinner recipe