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Homemade Creamy Pesto Chicken Rigatoni Bake recipe photo
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Creamy Pesto Chicken Rigatoni Bake

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Rigatoni Bake is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Chicken, Comfort Food, Easy, Pasta, Quick
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 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
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat 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. Drain and set aside.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken breast, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic in the last 1-2 minutes to soften.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low and pour heavy cream into the skillet with the chicken. Stir to combine, then add basil pesto. Mix well until sauce is creamy and smooth. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  • Transfer cooked rigatoni to a large mixing bowl. Pour creamy pesto chicken mixture over pasta and toss gently to coat evenly.
  • Lightly grease your baking dish and pour pasta and sauce mixture into it. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
  • Remove from oven and let cool a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Dish
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Cheese grater

Notes

  • For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or plant-based cream alternatives.
  • Use dairy-free cheese substitutes for a dairy-sensitive or vegan-friendly dish.
  • Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
  • Opt for gluten-free rigatoni to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
  • Cook rigatoni al dente to avoid mushy texture after baking.