Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken is a delicious, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with the rich, aromatic flavors of pesto and creamy mozzarella. The juicy chicken is topped with a perfect layer of melted mozzarella and pesto sauce, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s both simple and indulgent. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of fresh ingredients and the easy-to-follow steps ensures a delightful meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup pesto sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the prepared baking dish.
Spoon pesto sauce evenly over each chicken breast, spreading it out to cover the entire surface.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the pesto-covered chicken breasts.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Chicken Thighs: You can swap chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, slightly richer flavor.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based pesto and dairy-free cheese to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
Add Vegetables: Add sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers on top of the chicken before baking for extra flavor and color.
Spicy Pesto: For a kick of heat, use a spicy pesto or add red pepper flakes to the pesto sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power, though the oven will help preserve the texture of the cheese and chicken.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pesto sauce?

Yes, you can definitely use store-bought pesto if you’re short on time. Just choose a high-quality pesto for the best flavor.

2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, just follow the directions as normal.

4. What should I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or pasta for a more filling meal.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place it in an airtight container.

6. Is there a way to make the chicken crispier?

If you prefer a crispier texture, you can broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking to brown the cheese and edges.

7. Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of shredded?

Yes, fresh mozzarella can be used, though it may release more moisture as it melts. You may want to drain it before adding it to the chicken.

8. Can I use chicken with the skin on?

It’s best to use skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, as the skin can become soggy when baked with the pesto sauce. However, you can use skin-on chicken if preferred and bake it for a longer period of time.

9. How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

To keep the chicken juicy, avoid overcooking it. Make sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid dry chicken.

10. Can I add garlic to the pesto?

Absolutely! If you love garlic, you can add some extra minced garlic to the pesto for a more robust flavor.

Conclusion

Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the goodness of pesto, mozzarella, and juicy chicken. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, it’s perfect for any night of the week. You can easily adjust it to suit your dietary preferences or add extra toppings to make it even more exciting. Whether you serve it with a side of pasta, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad, it’s a meal that is sure to satisfy.

Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken

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Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken with rich pesto sauce and gooey melted mozzarella. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a deliciously aromatic flavor profile with minimal effort. Whether you’re a fan of fresh basil or prefer to add extra veggies, this recipe is versatile and sure to satisfy.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 30min
Total Time: 40min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

½ cup pesto sauce

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place them in the prepared baking dish.
Spoon pesto sauce evenly over each chicken breast, spreading it out to cover the entire surface.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the pesto-covered chicken breasts.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.

Notes

Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, slightly richer flavor.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based pesto and dairy-free cheese to make this dish vegan-friendly.
Add Vegetables: Top the chicken with sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers before baking for added flavor and color.
Spicy Pesto: For extra heat, try using a spicy pesto or add red pepper flakes to the pesto sauce.