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.
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)
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.
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.
Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/baked-pesto-mozzarella-chicken/