Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake

Name: Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup basil pesto; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Warmth in a Plate

I love whipping up a dish that’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare. This Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake has become a family favorite because of its rich flavors and creamy texture. I appreciate how the vibrant pesto blends perfectly with the tender chicken, creating a comforting meal that’s great for weeknights or special occasions. With just a few ingredients, I can serve a restaurant-quality dish that always impresses my guests. Trust me, this recipe will make your dinner table the talk of the night!

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-02-08T02:45:36.656Z

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake brings an Italian flair right into my kitchen. I remember the first time I tried combining creamy sauce with aromatic pesto. The result was heavenly! I’ve discovered that cooking the chicken in the oven helps it stay moist, while the sauce bubbling away creates a rich flavor that envelopes every bite.

If you’re looking for a quick recipe that doesn’t skimp on taste, I highly recommend serving it with fresh bread or over a bed of pasta. Each time I bake this, I feel like I’m indulging in a five-star meal with minimal effort.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich basil flavor from the pesto infused throughout the dish
Creamy texture that enhances the tenderness of the chicken
Quick prep time—perfect for busy weeknights

Ingredient Insights

The chicken breasts are the star of this dish, providing a lean protein base that absorbs all the vibrant flavors from the pesto. Opt for fresh chicken rather than frozen for the best texture. Additionally, consider pounding the chicken to an even thickness to promote uniform cooking, which helps prevent any dry pieces. If you're looking for a lighter option, chicken thighs can be substituted, as they maintain moisture well during baking.

Basil pesto is essential for delivering that rich, aromatic flavor. If you're short on time or ingredients, you can make a quick version at home using fresh basil, nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan. Alternatively, store-bought pesto also works great, but check for the ingredient list—avoid brands with fillers or additives for the best taste. Remember, a high-quality pesto will significantly elevate the overall flavor of your dish.

Baking Tips

When baking the chicken, make sure not to overcook it. The ideal internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer will help you ensure perfect doneness without the guesswork. After 20 minutes in the oven, you can start checking the internal temperature. If the chicken looks dry, consider adding a splash more cream to the dish before returning it to the oven.

To achieve that glorious, golden cheese topping, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye during broiling, as it can quickly go from perfectly melted to burnt. This step creates an amazing texture contrast, giving your chicken bake a crispy finish that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bake

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup basil pesto
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Feel free to adjust the amount of pesto according to your taste!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and the cheese melts beautifully.

Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream and basil pesto. Stir until well blended.

Assemble the Dish

Place the chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Pour the pesto cream mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.

Add Cheese

Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy!

This bake pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in pesto for a few hours before baking.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, simply take it out, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, then follow the baking instructions. This not only makes it ideal for busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully while resting in the fridge.

Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. For a quicker option, you can use the microwave, but ensure even heating by covering the dish loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap.

Serving Suggestions

For a well-rounded meal, pair the Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. The freshness of the salad complements the rich creaminess of the chicken beautifully. You can also serve it over a bed of cooked pasta or rice to soak up the luscious sauce, turning it into a heartier offering.

To elevate the presentation, garnish with additional fresh basil or a sprinkle of pine nuts before serving. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can add a delightful tang that balances the richness of the dish, making it visually appealing and deliciously flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work great and provide even more flavor!

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge, then bake it when needed.

→ What can I serve with Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake?

This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers, but it's best to consume them within 3 months for optimal flavor.