Creamy Pesto Chicken Rice Bake
A rich and comforting creamy pesto chicken rice bake made with tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, basil pesto, and melted mozzarella. Baked until golden and bubbly, this easy casserole is perfect for family dinners or make ahead meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked white rice, shredded chicken, basil pesto, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, lightly golden, and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil and serve warm.
Notes
- Use fluffy, not overly wet rice for best texture.
- Do not overbake to prevent the rice from drying out.
- Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience.
- Let the bake rest before serving for cleaner scoops.
Find it online: https://tastyze.com/creamy-pesto-chicken-rice-bake/