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When it comes to weeknight dinners, finding a dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare can often feel like a culinary balancing act. Enter Baked Pesto Alfredo Chicken Penne, a delightful fusion of flavors that not only pleases the palate but also simplifies your cooking routine. This dish combines the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the aromatic freshness of pesto, all baked to perfection with tender chicken and pasta. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Baked Pesto Alfredo Chicken Penne

Transform your weeknight dinners with Baked Pesto Alfredo Chicken Penne! This easy, one-dish recipe perfectly blends creamy Alfredo sauce with fresh pesto and tender chicken, all tossed with penne pasta for a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you're feeding the family or hosting friends, this dish impresses without hours in the kitchen. Explore the flavors and make it your new go-to for satisfying dinners!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast

1 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Reduce heat to low and mix in the pesto, half of the grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup), and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne, shredded chicken, and the pesto Alfredo sauce. Mix well until the pasta is uniformly coated in the sauce.

          Assemble the Dish: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the remaining grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup) and the shredded mozzarella cheese.

            Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

              Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious Baked Pesto Alfredo Chicken Penne!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 6-8