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
Scale
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
