Description
This Chicken Pesto Mac & Cheese Bake is the comfort food you didn’t know you were missing. Sharp cheddar cheese blends with herby basil pesto for a creamy, flavor-packed sauce that wraps around tender pasta and juicy grilled chicken. Finished with a crispy golden breadcrumb topping, it’s a satisfying dinner that feels indulgent and cozy—but with a fresh twist.
Ingredients
12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup prepared basil pesto
2 cups cooked grilled chicken, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Topping:
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Cook pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Cook 1–2 minutes, then slowly whisk in milk. Simmer until thickened.
Stir in shredded cheddar and pesto until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Mix well and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
Mix breadcrumbs, olive oil, and Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbling and golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 480
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g