If you’re looking for a flavorful, comforting dinner that comes together with minimal fuss but maximum taste, this Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals. Tender chicken breasts bathed in aromatic basil pesto, topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and baked to bubbly perfection, it’s a delightful dish that feels special yet is so easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend treats, this recipe brings the vibrant tastes of Italian cooking straight to your kitchen with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the juicy chicken breasts providing a hearty base to the flavorful pesto and cheeses that create rich layers of taste and appealing textures. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious meal:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that stays juicy and tender when baked.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken without overpowering it.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spice and balance to the dish.
- 1/2 cup basil pesto: Bursting with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil, it’s the heart of the flavor profile.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a luscious, gooey topping.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, savory kick with a nutty finish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Keeps the chicken moist and greases the baking dish for easy cleanup.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional): Brightens the plate and boosts the herbal aroma for that restaurant-worthy look.
How to Make Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C), which is the perfect temperature to cook the chicken evenly while melting the cheese to bubbly perfection. Meanwhile, lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and add a subtle richness to the base of the chicken.
Step 2: Season Your Chicken
Sprinkle the chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper, making sure every piece is seasoned well to enhance natural flavor. Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish, spacing them out to allow even cooking and cheese melting.
Step 3: Add the Pesto
Generously spread about 2 tablespoons of basil pesto over each chicken breast. This vibrant layer will infuse the meat with an herby, garlicky essence that fully develops during baking.
Step 4: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the pesto-coated chicken, creating a melty topping that will turn golden and irresistible in the oven.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Slide the dish into your oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye out for the chicken to be cooked through—no longer pink inside—and the cheeses to be bubbling and lightly browned at the edges.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
After baking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to seal in juices and mellow the flavors. If you have fresh basil on hand, sprinkle some leaves on top before serving to add a fresh, green pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a simple but elegant garnish that complements the pesto’s herbal notes while providing a visual feast. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also elevate each plate with subtle richness.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, garlic roasted vegetables, or a light pasta tossed in olive oil and parmesan. For a fresh contrast, a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, slice the chicken breasts and fan them out over a bed of spaghetti or zucchini noodles tossed lightly in olive oil. Layer bowls or plates attractively with roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach to add bursts of color and nutrition to your meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover baked pesto chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken separate from fresh garnishes will help maintain its best texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, you can freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve moisture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to avoid drying out, or microwave on medium power with a loose cover to retain moisture and prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?
Absolutely! Whether homemade or store-bought, pesto brings fantastic flavor. Just look for a high-quality basil pesto with fresh ingredients to get that authentic taste.
Is it necessary to use both mozzarella and Parmesan cheese?
Using both gives you the best of both worlds: mozzarella’s meltiness and Parmesan’s sharp, nutty flavor. However, you can adjust according to your preference or use alternatives like fontina or provolone.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is inherently gluten-free as it contains no wheat-based ingredients. Just double-check your pesto label if buying pre-made.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Marinating the chicken in pesto for 30 minutes before baking allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, enhancing taste and juiciness. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! It’s easy to prepare in advance, store, and reheat, making it perfect for packing lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe brings a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious meal to your table with minimal effort but maximum impact. It’s perfect for any occasion when you want something that feels both homey and a little special. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how effortlessly tasty dinner can be!
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
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Baked Pesto Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts topped with flavorful basil pesto and a melty blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfectly baked to a golden finish, it’s an easy and delicious Italian-inspired main course that pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
Toppings
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper. Place them in the greased baking dish, spacing them slightly apart for even cooking.
- Apply Pesto: Spread about 2 tablespoons of basil pesto over the top of each chicken breast to coat evenly. This adds rich herbal flavor and moisture during baking.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the pesto-coated chicken breasts. This will melt and brown beautifully as it bakes.
- Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden finish.
- Rest and Serve: 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
- You can use either homemade or store-bought basil pesto depending on your preference and time.
- Serve this dish with pasta, rice, or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
- For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the chicken in pesto for 30 minutes before baking.
