Creamy Pesto Chicken Rigatoni Bake

If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish that delivers rich, vibrant flavors with every bite, the Creamy Pesto Chicken Rigatoni Bake is your new go-to recipe. This dish combines tender chicken, al dente rigatoni, and a luscious basil pesto cream sauce, all topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing meal that comes together effortlessly. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe promises a satisfying and flavorful experience.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes the Creamy Pesto Chicken Rigatoni Bake truly special is the marriage of creamy decadence and fresh herbaceous pesto, creating a sauce that’s both indulgent and bright. Unlike traditional tomato-based pasta bakes, this recipe uses a rich heavy cream base that melds with the vibrant basil pesto to coat every rigatoni piece perfectly. The diced chicken breast adds a hearty protein element, while the Italian seasoning and garlic infuse the dish with aromatic layers of flavor. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese provides the perfect cheesy topping that melts beautifully to form a golden crust. It’s a balanced dish that feels both sophisticated and homey.

Ingredient Checklist

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Recommended Tools

• Large pot – to boil the rigatoni pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook the chicken and garlic
• Mixing bowl – for combining sauce and pasta
• Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended) – to bake the rigatoni
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce and pasta
• Cheese grater – for freshly grating Parmesan

Creamy Pesto Chicken Rigatoni Bake — Do This Next

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is boiling, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic in the last 1-2 minutes to soften and release its aroma without burning.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the chicken. Stir to combine, then add the basil pesto. Mix everything well until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Transfer the cooked rigatoni to a large mixing bowl. Pour the creamy pesto chicken mixture over the pasta and toss gently to coat every piece evenly.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Lightly grease your baking dish, then pour the pasta and sauce mixture into it. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an added burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Dietary Customizations

• Make it lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.
• Cheese alternatives: Use a dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan substitute to make it suitable for dairy-sensitive diets.
• Vegetarian option: Replace chicken breast with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free rigatoni pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing texture.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Overcooked pasta: Be sure to cook rigatoni al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta will turn mushy after baking.
• Dry chicken: Cut chicken into uniform pieces and avoid overcooking. Cooking chicken just until it’s opaque helps retain juiciness.
• Burnt garlic: Add garlic toward the end of cooking the chicken and sauté briefly to prevent a bitter taste.
• Cheese not melting evenly: Spread the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly and don’t skip the baking step to achieve a perfectly melted topping.

Shelf Life & Storage

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Rigatoni Bake keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out. For longer storage, you can freeze the fully baked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving for best texture and flavor.

Your Top Questions

Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought basil pesto works wonderfully and saves time. Just choose a high-quality pesto with fresh ingredients for the best flavor in your Creamy Pesto Chicken Rigatoni Bake.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce up to the point before baking. Store the assembled dish in the fridge, then bake fresh when ready to serve. This makes it an ideal dish for meal prep or entertaining.

What can I serve alongside this creamy pasta bake?

A light green salad or roasted vegetables complement this rich dish beautifully. Garlic bread or a simple bruschetta also pairs well to complete your meal.

Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Definitely! Shrimp, turkey breast, or even plant-based chicken substitutes can be used to tailor the dish to your preferences. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is cooked through.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Try the Chicken Parmesan Sliders for a fun twist on classic flavors.
• For a lighter pasta option, the Lighter Cheesy Pasta Bake is a fantastic choice.
• Love creamy pasta? Check out the Creamy Spinach And Artichoke Pasta for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Wrap-Up

The Creamy Pesto Chicken Rigatoni Bake is a standout recipe that balances creamy richness with fresh, herby notes. It’s straightforward enough for any home cook but impressive enough to serve at gatherings. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked rigatoni, and a luscious pesto cream sauce, it hits all the comfort food marks. Plus, the versatility in ingredients and simple tweaks means anyone can enjoy this dish their way. Whether you’re making it for dinner tonight or prepping meals for the week, this dish delivers satisfying flavor and effortless yum every time.

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