Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe for Easy Dinners Recipe
Introduction
This baked pesto chicken recipe offers a simple yet flavorful dinner idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are infused with bright basil pesto and topped with melty mozzarella cheese for a satisfying meal everyone will love.
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 all 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: Arrange the seasoned chicken strips in the baking dish. Spoon the remaining ¼ cup of basil pesto evenly over the chicken.
- Step 5: Cover the baking 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 another 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the chicken is cooked through. For a golden top, broil for 2–3 minutes if desired.
- Step 7: Remove from oven and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Use store-bought pesto for a quick meal or homemade pesto for a fresher taste.
- Add sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers on top before baking for extra flavor and color.
- Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina cheese for a different melty texture.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or over cooked pasta for a complete dinner.
Storage
Store leftover baked pesto chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to maintain moisture and flavor.
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 work well and may offer more juiciness. Adjust cooking time as needed, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Simply omit the mozzarella cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well. The pesto and chicken will still be flavorful without the cheese topping.
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Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe for Easy Dinners Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This Baked Pesto Chicken recipe offers a quick and flavorful dinner option featuring tender chicken breasts coated with fragrant basil pesto and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight meals, this dish combines the fresh taste of pesto with the comforting appeal of baked cheese.
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 ensure it reaches the correct baking temperature before you start preparing the chicken.
- Prepare the chicken: Slice each chicken breast lengthwise into three strips. Season the strips evenly with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Prepare the baking dish: Spray a 9×12-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spread ¼ cup of basil pesto uniformly over the bottom of the dish to create a flavorful base.
- Add chicken and pesto: Arrange the seasoned chicken strips in the baking dish over the pesto layer. Then spoon the remaining ¼ cup basil pesto evenly over the chicken to ensure every piece is coated.
- Bake covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This keeps the chicken moist as it cooks through.
- Add cheese and bake uncovered: After 25 minutes, remove the foil and evenly sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the chicken is fully cooked. For a golden top, optionally broil for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm. This dish pairs well with side salads, roasted vegetables, or pasta for a complete meal.
Notes
- For an extra cheesy crust, use freshly shredded mozzarella cheese.
- You can substitute pesto with a store-bought variety or homemade basil pesto.
- To ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If preferred, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto layer for a subtle spicy kick.
- Broiling is optional but recommended for a lightly browned and bubbly cheese topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Baked Pesto Chicken, Pesto Chicken Recipe, Easy Chicken Dinner, Mozzarella Cheese Chicken, Italian Chicken Bake
