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.
