Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake

Name: Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup fresh basil pesto; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Inspirations

I absolutely love making Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake when I want a dish that's both comforting and bursting with flavor. The creamy sauce combined with the vibrant taste of pesto elevates simple chicken to something truly special. It’s an easy recipe that ensures the chicken remains tender and juicy while soaking up that rich, aromatic sauce. Perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish never fails to impress and pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or some warm crusty bread.

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:29:35.763Z

While preparing this Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake, I experimented with blending homemade basil pesto into a creamy sauce, making everything richer and more flavorful. The result was a dish that not only looks appetizing but truly delivers on taste. I discovered that using fresh chicken breasts gives a juicier outcome than thighs, and baking them with the pesto sauce helps meld the flavors beautifully.

I like to serve this meal with garlic bread on the side, which is fantastic for scooping up any leftover sauce. Additionally, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan just before serving adds a delightful touch of creaminess and enhances the overall taste.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that envelops tender chicken perfectly
Bursting with vibrant flavors from fresh pesto
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners

Achieving Perfectly Cooked Chicken

When baking the chicken, it's crucial to ensure that it remains juicy and tender. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, so I recommend using an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you pull it out at the right temperature, you'll be rewarded with succulent chicken that pairs beautifully with the creamy pesto sauce.

One of the best techniques to achieve moist chicken is to avoid crowding the baking dish. Make sure the chicken breasts are spaced out, allowing for even heat distribution. If you have a larger batch, consider using two dishes instead of piling them in one, which ensures that every piece gets sufficient cooking time.

Elevating the Flavor Profile

The choice of pesto can significantly impact the overall flavor of the dish. Fresh pesto made from basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan will provide a vibrant taste, while store-bought varieties can be convenient in a pinch. Feel free to experiment with different types of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato or roasted red pepper, to introduce unique flavors to this bake.

Incorporating additional ingredients can further enhance this recipe. Consider adding cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers alongside the chicken. These vegetables will roast beautifully in the oven, absorbing the creamy sauce's flavors, and providing a pop of color and extra nutrition to your dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake is perfect for meal prep. After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week. Just remember to separate the sauce from the chicken for optimal storage.

When it's time to enjoy leftovers, reheating is simple. You can either place the dish back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which helps retain the sauce’s creamy consistency, or use the microwave for a quicker option. If reheating in the microwave, cover the container to prevent drying out the chicken.

Ingredients

For the Pesto Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh basil pesto
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Note:

Feel free to add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for added nutrition!

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, place the chicken breasts and season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, combine the basil pesto and heavy cream. Mix until well blended and pour it over the chicken in the baking dish.

Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the chicken and sauce mixture.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, and serve warm, optionally garnished with additional pesto or basil leaves.

Enjoy!

Serve this dish with your choice of side, such as pasta or a fresh salad.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in pesto for a few hours before baking. This will enhance the flavor profile even further.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Serving Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake can be just as fun as making it. Pairing it with a fresh garden salad dressed in a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish. The tangy notes from the dressing contrast nicely with the creamy sauce, balancing your meal beautifully.

Another delightful way to serve this dish is over a bed of cooked pasta or quinoa. This not only absorbs the succulent sauce but also adds a hearty element to your meal. Simply toss the cooked pasta or grain with some extra pesto before topping with chicken and sauce for an even more luxurious experience.

Dietary Adjustments and Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten up this dish, consider using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. The yogurt will still add creaminess while significantly reducing the calories. Just stir it in gently after baking to retain its texture without curdling.

For a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream blend, making sure to adjust the seasoning as necessary to account for their distinct flavors. Additionally, using a dairy-free cheese option can keep the dish friendly for those with lactose intolerance.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable if you want to feed a larger group. Simply adjust the number of chicken breasts and increase the proportions of the pesto and cream accordingly. Keep in mind that you might need a larger baking dish to accommodate additional pieces without overcrowding.

For a smaller portion, feel free to halve the ingredients. Just remember that the baking time might decrease slightly, so start checking the chicken a few minutes earlier while it's cooking to avoid dryness. This flexibility makes Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake a versatile choice for any size gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream?

You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute if needed.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What side dishes go well with this recipe?

Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a light salad would pair nicely with this creamy chicken bake.