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
Scale
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.
