If you’re craving a dinner that feels both fresh and indulgent, the Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It’s a delightful blend of juicy, tender chicken breasts smothered in vibrant basil pesto, topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and dotted with sweet cherry tomatoes that burst with flavor. This dish is so easy to prepare yet feels elegant enough for any weeknight meal or casual dinner party. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make this cheesy pesto chicken dish again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is refreshingly simple, but each one is carefully chosen to build layers of taste, texture, and color that truly shine through in the finished dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These provide the perfect tender base to soak up all the pesto goodness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick that balances the richness of the cheese.
- ½ cup basil pesto: The star ingredient that infuses the chicken with fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): These add a bright burst of sweetness and a lovely pop of vibrant color.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy topping.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty edge that complements the mozzarella perfectly.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional): A fragrant finishing touch that elevates the dish’s presentation and aroma.
How to Make Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to keep the chicken from sticking and arrange the chicken breasts evenly in a single layer. This ensures they cook consistently and get a gorgeous crust on the outside.
Step 2: Season and Pesto Layer
Sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly over each chicken breast. Then, spread about 2 generous tablespoons of basil pesto on top of each piece, making sure every bite will be bursting with that bold, herby flavor.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Cheese
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around and on top of the chicken. This not only adds juiciness but also a beautiful visual contrast. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over everything, layering that rich, melty cheese that turns this dish into pure comfort food.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through, juicy inside, and the cheese is bubbling with golden spots. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking; this little pause helps the juices settle and keeps every bite moist and flavorful.
How to Serve Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves on top after baking adds a lovely aromatic freshness and makes your plate look restaurant-worthy. You can also drizzle a touch of extra pesto or a squeeze of lemon juice for a zingy finish.
Side Dishes
This cheesy pesto chicken pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides like a crisp green salad, fluffy rice, or your favorite pasta tossed with olive oil and garlic. Roasted vegetables work wonderfully too, balancing the richness of the cheese and pesto perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken breasts and serve them over a bed of garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta. You can even turn leftovers into hearty sandwiches or wraps by adding some fresh greens and a spread of mayo or aioli.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day.
Freezing
Baked pesto chicken freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months for convenient, flavorful meals whenever you need a quick dinner fix.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and warm it at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15 minutes. This helps retain the textures and keeps the cheese nice and melty. Microwave reheating works if you’re short on time but may soften the toppings.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pesto for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pesto adds a fresh, customized touch, but store-bought varieties work perfectly well and save time without sacrificing flavor.
Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used if you prefer darker meat. Just adjust the baking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the chicken with pesto and toppings a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just bake it fresh before serving for the best texture and taste.
What if I’m lactose intolerant—can I make a dairy-free version?
You can skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives to make a delicious, dairy-free version while still keeping that rich pesto flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), or when juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink in the center.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is a wonderfully simple yet impressive dish that brings so much flavor and comfort to your table. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or hosting friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that won’t keep you in the kitchen for hours. Give it a try and watch it become a cherished favorite in your meal rotation!
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-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Baked Pesto Chicken recipe offers a flavorful and easy-to-make Italian-inspired main course featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in vibrant basil pesto, topped with juicy cherry tomatoes, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish combines creamy, cheesy textures with aromatic herbs for a satisfying low-carb, gluten-free meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer inside the dish.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Add Pesto: Spread about 2 tablespoons of basil pesto over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring an even coating of this aromatic sauce.
- Add Tomatoes: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around and on top of the chicken, adding freshness and slight sweetness.
- Add Cheese: Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the chicken and tomatoes for a creamy, cheesy topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired before serving.
Notes
- Serve this baked pesto chicken with pasta, rice, or a green salad for a complete, balanced meal.
- You can use either homemade or store-bought basil pesto depending on your preference and time constraints.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in pesto for a few hours before baking to infuse the meat.
