Craving a meal that’s both comforting and bursting with Italian flair? Baked Pesto Chicken delivers exactly that, pairing succulent, tender chicken breasts with a vibrant, herbaceous basil pesto that sings with every bite. As you slide this dish into the oven, you’ll anticipate the gooey mozzarella beginning to bubble and brown atop juicy tomato slices, creating a visual feast that promises big flavor. Savor the rich, zesty taste of Baked Pesto Chicken, topped with gooey cheese and fresh tomatoes! Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests with minimal fuss, this recipe is your ticket to a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing meal.
This Baked Pesto Chicken offers a delightful combination of juicy chicken, aromatic basil pesto, and melted mozzarella, making it a crowd-pleaser at any meal. You’ll love how straightforward it is: just a handful of ingredients transforms into an elegant dish that feels like a secret family recipe. The interplay between the tangy pesto, sweet tomato, and creamy cheese creates layers of flavor that dance across your palate. If you’re new to Italian-inspired dishes or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is as approachable as it is satisfying. And with a total cooking time of just under 40 minutes, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a delicious, healthy dinner.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BAKED PESTO CHICKEN
To make this Baked Pesto Chicken shine, you’ll need a handful of simple yet powerful ingredients. Each component plays its part, from giving the dish its savory backbone to adding pops of color and flavor that keep every bite interesting.
- Chicken breasts
These boneless, skinless cuts serve as your protein canvas, offering a lean, juicy base that soaks up all the delightful pesto flavors. Their mild taste lets the seasoning and toppings take center stage.
- Basil pesto
Whether you grab a jar from the store or whip up a homemade version, pesto infuses the chicken with bright, aromatic notes of basil, garlic, Parmesan, and pine nuts. It’s the secret sauce that brings everything together.
- Mozzarella cheese
Grated and generously sprinkled on top, mozzarella melts into a bubbly, golden blanket that adds creamy richness and a luxurious mouthfeel. It also helps lock in moisture, keeping the chicken juicy.
- Tomatoes
Sliced medium tomatoes introduce a refreshing, slightly acidic contrast to the creamy cheese and savory pesto. They burst with juicy sweetness and add a lovely pop of color to your plate.
- Salt and pepper
Simple yet indispensable, these seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and pesto. A light sprinkle on both sides of each breast ensures balanced taste with every bite.
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
A garnish of fresh basil leaves elevates the dish with extra herbal fragrance and a bright visual finish. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
HOW TO MAKE BAKED PESTO CHICKEN
This recipe is delightfully straightforward, guiding you through each step so you can assemble your baked pesto chicken with confidence. From prepping the chicken to achieving that perfect melted cheese topping, you’ll see how simple techniques yield restaurant-quality results at home.
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking and helps the cheese develop a golden, bubbly crust.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Season them with salt and pepper on both sides to bring out their natural flavors.
3. Spread the pesto evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring every inch is coated in that vibrant, herb-infused sauce.
4. Layer the tomato slices over the pesto-covered chicken, creating a colorful, juicy layer that will soften and meld beautifully as it bakes.
5. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, covering the tomatoes and pesto. This cheese will melt into a luscious, gooey topping.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each cut of chicken stays moist.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, before serving. The fresh herbs add a final burst of color and flavor.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BAKED PESTO CHICKEN
When it comes to serving Baked Pesto Chicken, the sky’s the limit! This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and can be dressed up or down to match your mood and occasion. Whether you’re craving something light and fresh or hearty and comforting, you’ll find the perfect accompaniment to elevate your meal.
- Rustic garlic bread
Toasted with a smear of butter, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of parsley, garlic bread soaks up any extra pesto and cheese drippings, making every bite savory and irresistible.
- Al dente pasta
Serve alongside linguine or penne, tossed in a little olive oil or extra pesto for an easy, cohesive meal. The pasta becomes a perfect base to catch any sauce that drips off the chicken.
- Crisp green salad
A mix of baby greens, shaved Parmesan, and a light lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich chicken. Add some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for crunch and color.
- Roasted vegetables
Oven-roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus with a drizzle of olive oil and a dash of salt and pepper bring vibrant flavors and textures that complement the cheesy, herby chicken beautifully.
HOW TO STORE BAKED PESTO CHICKEN
Storing your Baked Pesto Chicken properly ensures you can enjoy delicious leftovers without sacrificing taste or texture. With a few simple steps, you can maintain its freshness and recreate that just-baked flavor whenever you’re ready to indulge again.
- Airtight container refrigeration
Allow the chicken to cool completely, then place each breast in a sealed, airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes to revive the cheesy topping.
- Individual plastic wrap
Wrap each chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. This additional barrier prevents moisture loss and flavor transfer, keeping your pesto layers vibrant and your chicken juicy.
- Freezing for longer storage
To freeze, wrap each portion in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven.
- Reheating with moisture
When reheating, add a small splash of water or chicken broth to the bottom of the baking dish and cover with foil. This helps maintain moisture, ensuring your chicken doesn’t dry out.
CONCLUSION
In this article, we’ve walked through every detail of preparing a mouthwatering Baked Pesto Chicken recipe that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned home cooks. From the fresh, aromatic pesto to the gooey mozzarella cheese and juicy tomato layers, every component works in harmony to create a dinner that’s as beautiful on the plate as it is delicious on the palate. You’ve learned how to assemble the ingredients, follow the simple baking steps, and even mastered tips for serving and storing your dish to maintain peak flavor. With just 10 minutes of prep time, 30 minutes of cooking, and a 5-minute rest, you’re on your way to a show-stopping meal that clocks in at around 350 calories per serving. Feel free to print out this recipe and save it for later — it’s a keeper you’ll want to revisit time and again.
Whether you’re dishing this out for a cozy family dinner or hosting friends for a relaxed gathering, Baked Pesto Chicken is your go-to for an easy yet impressive meal. Below, you’ll also find a handy FAQ to answer any of your lingering questions. If you try this recipe or need any help along the way, I’d love to hear from you. Leave your comments, questions, or feedback — it’s always a joy to connect with fellow home cooks and share the love of good food. Happy cooking!
Baked Pesto Chicken
Description
This Baked Pesto Chicken offers a delightful combination of juicy chicken, aromatic basil pesto, and melted mozzarella, making it a crowd-pleaser at any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Season them with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Spread the pesto evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
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Layer the tomato slices over the pesto-covered chicken.
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Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
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Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, before serving.
Note
- You can use homemade pesto for a fresher flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes can be used instead of regular sliced tomatoes.
- Serve this dish with a side of pasta or a crisp green salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
