Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite), usually 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Sauté the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

In the same skillet, add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Add the Cream and Broth:

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.

3. Stir in the Pesto:

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the pesto. Let the sauce cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

1. Mix It All Together:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, and the creamy pesto sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the sauce.

2. Add Cheese:

Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the sauce, making it creamy and delicious.

Step 5: Assemble the Pasta Bake

1. Transfer to Baking Dish:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

2. Top with Cheese:

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella over the top of the pasta bake.

Step 6: Bake the Pesto Chicken Pasta

1. Bake the Pasta:

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

2. Optional Broil:

If you like a crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve with extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired.