Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Bake – Easy Holiday Casserole
This creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food for holiday gatherings. Packed with rich pesto, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli, it's a one-dish wonder that satisfies everyone.
Why This Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Bake Is Perfect for the Holidays
When the holidays roll around, we all crave dishes that are both comforting and impressive. This creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake hits all the right notes: it's rich, hearty, and packed with flavor from basil pesto, tender chicken, and al dente pasta. Plus, it all comes together in one casserole dish, making cleanup a breeze so you can spend more time with loved ones.
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can prep it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when guests arrive. The creamy sauce is made from a simple roux with a splash of cream and a generous dollop of pesto, creating a velvety coating for every piece of pasta and broccoli. And the golden, bubbly cheese topping? It's the kind of thing that makes everyone gather around the table.
Ingredients Checklist
🛒 Ingredients Checklist
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Bake
This recipe starts with cooking the pasta until just al dente — you want it to finish cooking in the oven. While the pasta boils, you'll make a quick creamy pesto sauce on the stovetop. Then combine everything in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.
Creamy Pesto Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Bake
🥕Ingredients
Tap to check off as you go
- 12 oz pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
📋Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 2
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until golden. Gradually pour in milk and cream, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- 3
Stir in pesto, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add shredded chicken and broccoli florets; cook for 2 minutes until broccoli is bright green.
- 4
Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture in a large bowl. Transfer to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
- 5
Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- •For a vegetarian version, omit chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.
- •You can substitute gluten-free pasta — just be careful not to overcook it initially.
Nutrition per serving
Pro Cooking Tip
For the creamiest sauce, use freshly grated Parmesan and a good-quality jarred pesto. If you have time, make your own pesto for an even brighter flavor!
Serving Suggestions
This pasta bake is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread. For a holiday spread, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a bright cranberry salad to balance the richness.
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days — simply reheat in the oven or microwave. You can also freeze the unbaked casserole; just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This creamy pesto chicken and broccoli pasta bake is a holiday hero: easy to make, loved by all ages, and packed with comforting flavors. Whether you're hosting a festive dinner or just want a cozy weeknight meal, this casserole will become a staple in your rotation. Don't forget to save this recipe for your next gathering — your family will thank you!
Written by
Elena RossiI'm Elena, a home cook turned recipe developer. At cooking word, I share simple, seasonal dishes inspired by my Italian roots and busy life.
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