Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Baked Pesto Chicken is a simple and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that’s both comforting and fresh.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup pesto
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or Parmesan)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Step 2: Spread the pesto evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the pesto-covered chicken.
- Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh basil pesto for the best flavor, or try sun-dried tomato pesto for a twist.
- For extra moisture, marinate the chicken in pesto for 30 minutes before baking.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the cheese for a bit of heat.
Storage
Store leftover baked pesto chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a low oven to keep the chicken moist and the cheese melty.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay juicy. Adjust the baking time slightly, checking for doneness after 30 minutes.
What can I serve with baked pesto chicken?
This dish pairs nicely with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or cooked pasta to soak up the flavorful pesto and cheese.
PrintBaked Pesto Chicken Recipe
This Baked Pesto Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts topped with flavorful pesto and melted cheese, baked to perfection for a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
Sauce
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in a baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced for consistent cooking.
- Apply pesto topping: Spread an even layer of basil pesto over the top of each chicken breast, covering them thoroughly to infuse every bite with flavor.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pesto-covered chicken breasts to create a deliciously melty topping.
- Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing the juices to redistribute and the cheese to set slightly.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken breasts in pesto for 30 minutes before baking.
- Use fresh basil pesto for the best taste, or store-bought pesto works well in a pinch.
- Feel free to substitute mozzarella with Parmesan or a blend of Italian cheeses.
- Check chicken temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid under or overcooking.
- This recipe pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Keywords: baked pesto chicken, pesto chicken breast, easy chicken dinner, cheesy pesto chicken, Italian chicken recipe
