If you are looking for a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors yet comes together effortlessly, this Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is an absolute winner. Tender chicken breasts smothered in rich, aromatic basil pesto, topped with juicy tomato slices and gooey melted mozzarella, create a wholesome meal that feels both comforting and special. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something delicious but fuss-free, and it’s sure to impress anyone you share it with.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Each component plays a crucial role—the pesto brings herbal brightness, the tomatoes add a sweet acidity, and the mozzarella gives a satisfying, melty finish that ties everything together beautifully.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that soaks up all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto: A fragrant blend of basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan that infuses the chicken with a burst of Italian-inspired goodness.
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese: Melts to create a lovely golden layer that adds creamy indulgence.
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced: Fresh tomato slices that introduce juicy sweetness and a pop of color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Adds freshness and elegance when serving.
How to Make Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures your chicken cooks fully while achieving a lovely golden finish on the cheese topping. Preparing the oven ahead helps the cooking go smoothly and evenly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Place each boneless chicken breast into a baking dish, arranging them so they are evenly spaced. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the natural flavor of the chicken without overpowering the pesto.
Step 3: Spread the Pesto
Use a spoon or small spatula to generously coat each chicken breast with the vibrant basil pesto. This layer is where your dish gets its signature herbaceous kick, making every bite fragrant and rich.
Step 4: Add Tomato Slices
Carefully layer the tomato slices over the pesto-covered chicken. The tomatoes add bursts of juiciness and a subtle sweetness, balancing the savory pesto while giving extra moisture during baking.
Step 5: Sprinkle with Mozzarella
Top everything off with an even sprinkle of grated mozzarella cheese. As it bakes, the cheese melts into a creamy, bubbling crust that makes the dish feel indulgent while adding great texture.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through, the cheese is melted and lightly browned, and the whole kitchen smells irresistible.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This simple step helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping every bite moist and flavorful.
Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy
If you like, add some fresh basil leaves on top before serving for an extra sprinkle of color and freshness. Now you’re ready to serve a dish that tastes as wonderful as it looks.
How to Serve Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are the perfect garnish, adding a burst of color and continuing the herbal theme. You might also consider a light drizzle of extra pesto or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
This baked pesto chicken shines alongside simple sides like garlic roasted potatoes, a crisp green salad, or lightly steamed vegetables. Each side respects the dish’s bold flavors while adding complementary textures and nutrients.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the chicken on a wooden board with additional basil pesto dip on the side. Layering slices slightly overlapping on a platter with mixed greens can create a beautiful presentation that invites guests to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover baked pesto chicken in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It maintains its flavor well, so you can enjoy it again as a quick lunch or dinner.
Freezing
If you want to save the dish for longer, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It freezes well for up to 2 months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This method keeps the cheese melty and the chicken tender without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pesto for this Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pesto adds an extra layer of freshness and allows you to customize flavors to your liking. Just be sure it’s not too watery to avoid soggy chicken.
What type of mozzarella is best for this recipe?
Shredded part-skim mozzarella works great for melting without too much grease. Fresh mozzarella can be used but slice it thinly and add it slightly later in baking to avoid excessive moisture on the chicken.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is perfect for meal prepping. It reheats beautifully and pairs well with a variety of pre-cooked grains or roasted vegetables for easy, flavorful meals throughout the week.
Can I substitute the chicken breasts with thighs?
You can! Chicken thighs are juicier and have more fat, so your dish will be more robust. Just adjust the cooking time slightly and check that the thighs are cooked through.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Simply omit the mozzarella or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The pesto and tomatoes provide plenty of flavor to keep your meal delicious and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that keeps you coming back for more because it’s so full of flavor yet remarkably easy to pull together. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, it offers a delightful balance of fresh, savory, and cheesy goodness that truly feels like a home-cooked masterpiece. Give it a try—you might just find your new weeknight favorite!
Print
Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 40m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Baked Pesto Chicken recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts topped with flavorful basil pesto, fresh tomato slices, and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s an easy, wholesome dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that combines Italian-inspired flavors with simple preparation.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the chicken evenly.
- Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish, seasoning both sides with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Apply Pesto: Spread the basil pesto evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring full coverage for maximum taste.
- Add Tomatoes: Layer the sliced tomatoes over the pesto-covered chicken breasts, adding freshness and juiciness to the dish.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the tomatoes and chicken to create a deliciously cheesy crust when baked.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to retain juices and improve texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for an added burst of color and herbal aroma.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or Parmesan cheese for a different flavor profile.
- If pesto is too thick, thin it out slightly with a little olive oil for easier spreading.
- Use fresh ripe tomatoes for the best taste and texture.
- Letting the chicken rest after baking helps keep it moist.
