If you love quick, flavorful meals that look as good as they taste, this Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. It marries tender chicken breasts with the bright, herbaceous punch of basil pesto, topped with juicy cherry tomatoes and two types of melty cheese that create a bubbly, irresistible crust. Every bite bursts with fresh Italian-inspired flavors, and the best part is how simple it is to throw together without compromising on that impressive, homemade feel.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of taste, texture, and color. From the vibrant green basil pesto to the creamy mozzarella that melts into a golden blanket, you’ll appreciate how easy yet essential each element is to this dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The hearty base of the dish, chosen for lean protein and quick baking time.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken without overpowering the pesto.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right touch of mild heat and complexity.
- 1 cup basil pesto: The star ingredient that infuses the chicken with fragrant, vibrant herb flavor.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Provides brightness and juiciness, balancing the richness of the cheese.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, satisfying crust.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty sharpness that elevates the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For greasing the dish and imparting a subtle fruitiness.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional): A fresh pop of green and extra herbal aroma when serving.
How to Make Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s perfectly hot and ready to bake the chicken evenly. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to stop the chicken from sticking and add a subtle fruity layer of flavor. Season each chicken breast generously on both sides with salt and black pepper—this simple step really helps bring out their natural taste and depth.
Step 2: Spread the Pesto
Now comes the fun part: spreading 2 to 3 tablespoons of basil pesto over the top of each chicken breast. Don’t be shy here! The pesto is what injects that unmistakable herbaceous, garlicky goodness that makes this dish unforgettable. If you have a little extra time, you can even marinate the chicken in pesto for half an hour beforehand for an extra flavor punch.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Cheese
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes evenly over the pesto-coated chicken. These little gems add juicy pops and a sunny hint that contrasts perfectly with the lush pesto. Next, blanket the chicken with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. The cheeses will melt and bubble up beautifully while baking, creating a golden, cheesy crust that’s simply irresistible.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfect
Place your baking dish in the oven and let everything cook for about 25 to 30 minutes. The chicken should be fully cooked through, tender and juicy, with cheese melted and lightly golden on top. You’ll know it’s ready when the juices run clear and your kitchen smells like a cozy Italian trattoria.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, fresh basil leaves are a delightful final touch—adding bright color and a fresh herbal pop that elevates both look and flavor. Now your Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is ready to impress!
How to Serve Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Besides fresh basil, consider a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. A squeeze of lemon juice on top right before serving can also brighten up the flavors and provide a lovely contrast to the rich cheese and pesto.
Side Dishes
This Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up the delicious juices. Think buttery garlic pasta, fluffy rice, or a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. Roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus, zucchini, or green beans also complement the dish beautifully, adding texture and color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider plating each chicken breast on a bed of spaghetti tossed lightly with olive oil and more basil pesto. Garnish with extra cherry tomatoes and shaved Parmesan to mirror the flavors and create an elegant presentation. Individual ramekins with a sprinkle of cheese broiled on top make for a charming twist. This dish is as much about the flavor as it is about that vibrant, inviting look!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, allow any leftovers to cool before placing them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to keep the chicken moist and safe to eat. They will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Properly stored, they will maintain flavor and texture for up to 2 months. When you are ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, microwaving on medium power in short intervals works fine, but the oven method preserves that cheesy, melty goodness best.
FAQs
Can I use another kind of pesto for this recipe?
Absolutely! While basil pesto is classic and pairs perfectly, you can experiment with sun-dried tomato pesto or even arugula pesto. Each will bring a slightly different character, so have fun customizing your Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe to your taste.
Is it okay to use frozen chicken breasts?
You can use frozen chicken breasts as long as you fully thaw them before cooking. Cooking frozen chicken directly may lead to uneven cooking and drying out. Pat the thawed chicken dry before seasoning for the best results.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses or substitute with dairy-free cheese options available in many stores. The pesto itself sometimes contains cheese, so check the label or make a nut-and-herb pesto without cheese for a fully dairy-free version.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure there is no pink in the thickest part and the juices run clear when you cut into the chicken.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Definitely! Just use a larger baking dish or multiple dishes, and adjust cooking times slightly if the dish is crowded. Keep the layers even to ensure every breast bakes perfectly and has that lovely pesto-cheese topping.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about a dish that comes together easily yet delivers layers of fresh, vibrant taste and satisfying textures. This Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe fits the bill perfectly and is sure to become a beloved addition to your meal rotation. Whether for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, take a moment to enjoy the delicious magic of pesto, cheese, and perfectly baked chicken all in one dish. Happy cooking!
Print
Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Baked Pesto Chicken recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts generously coated with flavorful basil pesto, topped with juicy cherry tomatoes, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s an easy, low-carb, and gluten-free dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dinner with Italian-American flair.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
Toppings
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready when your chicken is prepared.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking and to add a subtle richness.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and then season both sides with salt and pepper evenly for balanced flavor.
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the greased baking dish, spaced slightly apart to ensure even cooking.
- Apply the Pesto: Spread 2 to 3 tablespoons of basil pesto over the top of each chicken breast, covering the surface with a flavorful herbaceous layer.
- Add Toppings: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes over the pesto layer, then evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top of each breast.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm alongside your choice of pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can use either homemade or store-bought basil pesto depending on preference and convenience.
- For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in pesto for 30 minutes before assembling and baking.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a crisp green salad to round out the meal.
