Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake

Name: Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup basil pesto; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Inspirations

I absolutely love making this Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful pesto creates a dish that my family can't get enough of. It never fails to impress and is surprisingly easy to prepare! I appreciate how the creamy texture pairs beautifully with the zesty basil, making it a hit with both adults and kids. Plus, it takes just a little over an hour from start to finish, which is always a bonus during busy weeknights.

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:24:38.298Z

When I first made this Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake, I was amazed by how quickly it came together. I marinated the chicken in pesto beforehand, which infuses incredible flavor, and used a mix of both cream and mozzarella cheese for that perfect gooey texture. Trust me, letting it bake until bubbling and golden creates a mouthwatering experience!

One tip I learned is to top it off with a sprinkle of fresh basil just before serving. It not only enhances the visual appeal but also elevates the fresh pesto flavor. My family loves it served over pasta or with warm crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture with a burst of fresh pesto flavor
Quick preparation and cooking time makes it perfect for any night
Can be paired with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a hearty meal

Perfecting the Chicken

The key to achieving tender and juicy chicken breasts in this Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake lies in the marinating process. By coating the chicken with basil pesto and letting it sit for at least 15 minutes, the flavors are infused deep into the meat, enhancing both taste and moisture. For an even richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken for up to an hour in the refrigerator before cooking. You can also experiment with different pesto varieties, such as sun-dried tomato or spinach pesto, for a unique twist.

When searing the chicken, ensure the skillet is adequately heated before adding the meat to prevent sticking and promote a nice golden crust. This caramelization adds depth of flavor to the dish. A tip I’ve found useful is to use a cast iron or stainless-steel skillet; both retain heat well and can go directly from stovetop to oven without issues.

Cheese Choices and Tips

The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses in this recipe not only gives a lovely gooey texture but also contributes to the overall flavor profile. Mozzarella melts beautifully, creating that irresistible stretchiness, while Parmesan adds a nutty, salty kick. For a richer taste, consider using aged Parmesan, which has a deeper flavor than regular. If you’re looking for a lower-fat alternative, part-skim mozzarella can be a suitable substitute.

Be mindful not to overbake the chicken, as it can become dry. A meat thermometer can be invaluable here; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once you see the cheese bubbling and starting to turn golden, you know it’s time to take it out. Keeping an eye on the dish during the last few minutes of baking will ensure you achieve that perfect cheesy crust without overcooking the chicken.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake pairs beautifully with various sides. I love serving it over a bed of pasta, allowing the creamy sauce to coat the noodles, but it also works well with rice or crusty bread for soaking up the sauce. To enhance the dish, consider adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus on the side for a pop of color and nutrition. You can even stir in some cherry tomatoes before baking for an added burst of freshness.

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also freeze the unbaked dish for up to three months. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil; when ready to bake, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time since it will be starting from frozen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bake

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup basil pesto
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh basil for garnish

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare Chicken

In a bowl, mix the chicken breasts with basil pesto, ensuring they're evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Sear the Chicken

In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Add Cream and Cheese

Reduce heat and pour the heavy cream over the chicken, then top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbling.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can include sun-dried tomatoes or spinach into the baking process. They not only enhance the taste but also add more colors to the dish.

Ingredient Variations

While basil pesto is a classic choice for this recipe, experimenting with other pesto varieties can yield exciting results. For a spicy kick, try adding arrabbiata sauce instead of pesto or blend in sun-dried tomatoes to create a unique flavor profile. Additionally, feel free to incorporate vegetables like spinach or kale into the pesto for added nutrition and flavor. These substitutions keep the meal fresh and adaptable to your family's preferences.

For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with canned coconut milk or a cashew cream blend. While it will alter the flavor slightly, it can still create a rich sauce that pairs well with pesto. Nutty almond milk could also work as a lighter option, but you'll want to add a touch of cornstarch for thickness.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prep. To adjust the serving size, simply increase the amount of chicken and other ingredients proportionately. For larger groups, consider a double batch; when baking, ensure that the chicken pieces are not overcrowded in the skillet, which can affect cooking times and achieve even browning.

If you prefer to cook for fewer people, simply halve the ingredients. However, keep in mind that cooking times may need slight adjustments—check for doneness a few minutes earlier than the original instructions recommend to avoid overcooking the chicken filets.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto makes this recipe even quicker and is still delicious.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken bake pairs wonderfully with pasta, brown rice, or a simple green salad.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare it up to a day in advance, then just bake when you're ready.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.