Pesto Chicken Shepherd's Pie Bake

Name: Pesto Chicken Shepherd's Pie Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup pesto sauce; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup milk; 4 tablespoons butter; Salt to taste; 1 cup grated cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals

I absolutely love this Pesto Chicken Shepherd's Pie Bake! With the creamy pesto chicken filling and a fluffy mashed potato topping, it’s become a staple in our household. The blend of flavors creates an incredibly satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. I appreciate how easy it is to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight meals. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken. Every bite is a delightful combination of comfort food and Italian flair that I can't resist.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:33:27.467Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I was searching for a twist on traditional shepherd's pie. The addition of pesto was an unexpected but delightful choice! The fresh basil flavor brightens the dish, offering a unique taste that I can’t get enough of. I found that the quality of pesto significantly affects the final result, so I recommend using homemade if possible.

While preparing this meal, I discovered how well the creamy filling paired with the fluffy mashed potatoes. The combination is fulfilling and provides the perfect balance between rich and hearty. My tip is to reserve some cheese for topping the mashed potatoes to get a beautifully golden crust!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Deliciously creamy pesto flavor that enhances the chicken
Comforting mashed potato topping that everyone loves
Easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
One dish for dinner means less cleanup!

Mastering the Pesto Chicken Filling

The pesto chicken filling is the heart of this dish, and getting it just right is crucial. Using freshly made or high-quality store-bought pesto enhances the dish's flavors significantly. The creamy mixture comes together beautifully with the addition of heavy cream, which not only adds richness but also helps bind everything together. Mixing in vegetables like peas and carrots adds color and nutrition, while also providing textural contrast to the tender chicken.

To prevent the filling from being too bland, don’t forget to season it well with salt and pepper. Tasting as you go is essential; you want a balanced flavor that will shine through when baked. If you're looking for a lighter option, you could substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth or use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Creating the Perfect Mashed Potato Topping

For the mashed potato topping, the type of potatoes you use can affect the final texture. Russet potatoes create a fluffy, airier topping, while Yukon Golds deliver a creamier, denser result. No matter which you choose, be sure to boil them until fork-tender, as undercooked potatoes can lead to a lumpy mashed texture.

When mashing, incorporating warm milk and butter is key to achieving that silky finish. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding herbs like chives or garlic powder to the potatoes. If you're feeling adventurous, a dollop of sour cream can lend a delightful tanginess, making the topping even more irresistible.

Baking and Serving Suggestions

Baking this dish at 375°F (190°C) allows the flavors to meld and the top to develop a beautiful, golden crust. A visual cue for doneness is bubbling edges and that coveted golden-brown topping. If the top isn’t browning as you’d like after 30 minutes, broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Once baked, let the dish sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving; this allows the filling to set and makes for easier portioning. Serve it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any of that velvety filling. If you’re thinking about leftovers, this dish keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, and it reheats beautifully in the oven.

Ingredients

Gathering the ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you will need:

For the Pesto Chicken Filling

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup pesto sauce
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping

4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 cup milk
4 tablespoons butter
Salt to taste
1 cup grated cheese (optional)

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you can start preparing the dish!

Instructions

Here’s how to put everything together:

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add milk and butter, then mash until smooth. Season with salt to taste.

Make the Chicken Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, pesto sauce, heavy cream, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread the chicken filling evenly. Top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing them out. If using, sprinkle cheese on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Now your Pesto Chicken Shepherd's Pie Bake is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for an extra flavor boost. If you're short on time, you can also use store-bought mashed potatoes.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is quite versatile when it comes to substitutions. If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, rotisserie chicken works perfectly, as does shredded turkey. For a vegetarian version, try substituting the chicken with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and lentils, ensuring to adjust the cooking time as needed for the filling's texture.

In terms of pesto, if you’re out, making a quick homemade version with basil, nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan can elevate the dish. Alternatively, a sun-dried tomato pesto could add a different, yet delicious flavor profile.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

This Pesto Chicken Shepherd's Pie Bake is ideal for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the chicken filling and mashed potatoes a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, just assemble and pop it in the oven—no additional prep required!

For long-term storage, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake directly from the freezer, allowing an additional 10-15 minutes of cooking time.

Variations and Customizations

Experimenting with various flavors can make this recipe even more exciting. Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist. For a Southwest flair, toss in corn and black beans, and use a chipotle pesto instead. Be adventurous with your ingredient choices, as they can significantly change the character of this dish.

You can also adjust the level of creaminess by swapping out some of the heavy cream for low-fat cream cheese or even cottage cheese for a healthier option. This way, you’ll keep that delightful creaminess while reducing calories without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor.

→ Is there a vegetarian option available?

Yes, simply substitute the chicken with cooked lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled bake before baking. Just cover it tightly and it will keep for up to 2 months.