Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Casserole

• 12 oz pasta (rotini or penne)
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup basil pesto
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. 3 In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until tender.
4. 4 Stir in pesto and heavy cream, heating through until well combined.
5. 5 Mix in cooked pasta, shredded chicken, peas, salt, and pepper until everything is coated in the sauce.
6. 6 Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. 7 Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
8. 8 Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. 9 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• skillet
• baking sheet

Variations

• Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
• Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Substitutions

• If you don't have pesto, use 1/2 cup basil, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, 2 cloves garlic, and 1/4 cup olive oil blended together.
• Substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for a different protein source.

Pairings

• Pairs well with Italian bread and a side of roasted vegetables.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a vegetarian option, omit chicken and add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
• Make ahead by assembling the casserole and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake covered at 350°F for 30 minutes, uncover, and bake an additional 10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh green salad.
• Pair with garlic bread for a satisfying meal.

FAQ