If you’re craving a meal that’s every bit as comforting as it is vibrant, Baked Pesto Chicken is a must-try. Imagine juicy chicken breasts blanketed in fragrant basil pesto, bubbling mozzarella, and golden Parmesan — all baked to perfection. This dish is effortlessly elegant, bursting with color and savory flavors, and it’s the kind of weeknight dinner that impresses without fuss. Even better, Baked Pesto Chicken comes together quickly, making it ideal for both busy evenings and special gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Baked Pesto Chicken is the definition of simple ingredients yielding maximum flavor. Every single component brings its own magic to the party, ensuring a dinner that looks as great as it tastes.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and ready to soak up all the glorious pesto and cheese flavors.
- Basil Pesto: Classic, aromatic, and either homemade or store-bought — pesto is the star, infusing the dish with garlicky, herby freshness.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds that oozy, cheesy layer everyone loves.
- Parmesan Cheese: Brings savory depth and a touch of toasty, golden magic on top.
- Olive Oil: Not only greases the baking dish but adds a subtle richness to each bite.
- Salt and Pepper: The essential seasonings every good chicken dish needs — simple, but crucial.
- Fresh Basil Leaves (optional): Perfect for a pop of color and extra fragrance when serving.
How to Make Baked Pesto Chicken
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key for juicy chicken and bubbly cheese. Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil, which helps prevent sticking and adds a hint of richness to the base of the chicken.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Lay the chicken breasts in the baking dish, spacing them evenly. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper, making sure every piece is well-seasoned—this simple step sets up flavorful layers in your final Baked Pesto Chicken.
Step 3: Layer on the Pesto
Spoon about two tablespoons of basil pesto over each chicken breast, spreading evenly to cover the tops. Don’t be shy here—the pesto’s robust flavor is what makes this dish sing, giving every bite a burst of herby goodness.
Step 4: Add the Cheesy Topping
Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pesto layer, then dust everything with grated Parmesan. The mozzarella will turn melty and stretchy, while the Parmesan brings a deeper, slightly nutty flavor as it bakes to a gentle golden crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know your Baked Pesto Chicken is ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally. For extra golden color, you can broil for the last 2 minutes—just keep a close watch!
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest briefly so the juices redistribute. If you like, scatter fresh basil leaves over the top for a beautiful, aromatic finish. Now you’re ready to serve up this star-worthy dish!
How to Serve Baked Pesto Chicken
Garnishes
A sprinkle of torn fresh basil leaves takes Baked Pesto Chicken visually (and aromatically) to the next level. You can also add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few cracks of fresh black pepper just before serving for extra flair.
Side Dishes
This chicken truly shines when paired with classic sides like al dente pasta, creamy risotto, simple roasted vegetables, or a crisp side salad. The cheesy, pesto-packed sauce from the chicken mingles deliciously with whatever you choose, making every bite swoon-worthy.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to make a statement, serve Baked Pesto Chicken atop a bed of sautéed spinach, or sliced over warm grains like quinoa or farro. For a family-style meal, arrange the chicken on a large platter with cherry tomatoes and more basil for a pop of fresh color. This presentation is undeniably inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Pesto Chicken stores like a dream. Pack cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making leftovers especially delightful.
Freezing
If you have more than you can eat, you can freeze Baked Pesto Chicken. Wrap individual portions tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It keeps well for up to three months, making future dinners ultra easy.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat leftovers gently in the oven (covered with foil) at 350°F until warmed through. You can also microwave in a pinch, though the cheese may not stay quite as melty. Either way, Baked Pesto Chicken will be every bit as comforting the second time around.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are deliciously juicy and work great in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as thighs may require a bit longer to cook through.
How can I make my own pesto for Baked Pesto Chicken?
Homemade pesto is so simple—blend fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts (or walnuts), olive oil, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Use it in place of jarred pesto for an extra punch of brightness in your Baked Pesto Chicken.
Is this recipe gluten free?
Yes, Baked Pesto Chicken is naturally gluten free, provided your pesto and cheeses don’t contain added gluten (which is rare). It’s a fantastic option for those following a gluten free or low carb lifestyle.
What’s the best way to check if the chicken is done?
Using an instant-read thermometer, check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures your Baked Pesto Chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat, with juicy results every time.
Can I prepare Baked Pesto Chicken ahead of time?
You can assemble the chicken with pesto and cheeses up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Simply bake when ready—no extra steps required, making weeknight meals or dinner parties a total breeze.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience the flavor and ease of Baked Pesto Chicken. It’s a standout recipe that delivers comfort, freshness, and a little elegance, all with minimal effort. Give it a try, and let it become your new go-to for magical, memorable meals at home!
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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: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Pesto Chicken recipe is a flavorful and easy way to prepare chicken breasts. Packed with the vibrant taste of basil pesto and gooey melted cheese, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special family meal.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Pesto:
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the dish and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Add pesto: Spread about 2 tablespoons of pesto over each chicken breast, covering the top evenly.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the pesto.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving, if desired.
Notes
- You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts if preferred—adjust baking time accordingly.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in pesto for a few hours before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
