Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Introduction
This Baked Pesto Chicken recipe is a quick and flavorful dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are layered with vibrant basil pesto and topped with melted mozzarella cheese for a satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup basil pesto, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Cut each chicken breast lengthwise into 3 strips. Season the chicken strips evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Step 3: Spray a 9×12-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread ¼ cup of basil pesto evenly over the bottom of the dish.
- Step 4: Place the seasoned chicken strips in the baking dish. Top with the remaining ¼ cup of basil pesto.
- Step 5: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Step 6: Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken. Bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and chicken is cooked through. For a browned top, broil for 2-3 minutes if desired.
- Step 7: Serve hot, spooning extra juices from the dish over the chicken.
Tips & Variations
- Cut chicken breasts evenly for consistent cooking.
- Use homemade basil pesto for a fresh flavor or store-bought for convenience.
- Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina cheese for a different taste.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or a side salad to complete your meal.
Storage
Store leftover pesto chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust baking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the baked chicken before adding cheese. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking and adding cheese.
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Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This baked pesto chicken recipe offers a simple and flavorful dinner option featuring tender chicken breasts layered with vibrant basil pesto and melted mozzarella cheese. With minimal prep and a straightforward baking process, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying meal any day.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Pesto and Cheese
- ½ cup basil pesto, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the chicken: Cut each chicken breast lengthwise into three strips for uniform cooking and season them evenly with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly spray a 9×12-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spread ¼ cup of basil pesto evenly over the bottom of the dish to infuse flavor from below.
- Add chicken and pesto: Arrange the seasoned chicken strips in the baking dish and top them evenly with the remaining ¼ cup of basil pesto to coat the chicken beautifully.
- Bake covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and absorb the pesto flavors.
- Add cheese and bake uncovered: Remove the foil and evenly sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken. Return the dish uncovered to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese melts. For a golden browned cheese topping, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes if desired.
- Serve the dish: Serve the baked pesto chicken hot, spooning extra flavorful juices from the bottom of the dish over the chicken for a delicious finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure chicken strips are cut evenly for consistent cooking.
- Use either store-bought or homemade basil pesto based on preference.
- Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for different cheese flavors.
- Pair this dish with pasta, rice, or a side salad to complete your meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: baked pesto chicken, easy dinner recipes, chicken breast recipe, basil pesto chicken, mozzarella chicken bake
