Pesto Chicken Bake

Pesto Chicken Bake is a delightful and effortless dish that combines tender chicken breasts with aromatic basil pesto and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner, delivering rich flavors with minimal preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings.

• Flavorful: The combination of juicy chicken, vibrant pesto, and gooey mozzarella offers a satisfying taste experience.

• Versatile: This dish pairs well with various sides, such as roasted vegetables, salads, or pasta, allowing you to customize your meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1/2 cup basil pesto

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

3. Assemble the Dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spread a generous amount of basil pesto over each piece.

4. Add Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pesto-coated chicken breasts.

5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Thighs: For a juicier option, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.

• Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for provolone or Havarti for a different flavor profile.

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers on top of the pesto before adding cheese for extra depth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave for individual servings.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, using store-bought pesto is a convenient option that still delivers great flavor.

2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. Bake within 24 hours for the best results.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s not recommended, as the texture of the chicken may change upon freezing and reheating.

6. What sides pair well with this dish?

Consider serving with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic.

7. How can I make the dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the pesto or sprinkle them on top before baking.

8. Can I use fresh mozzarella?

Fresh mozzarella can be used, but ensure it’s well-drained to prevent excess moisture.

9. How do I prevent the cheese from browning too much?

Cover the baking dish with foil during the first half of baking, then remove to allow the cheese to melt and bubble.

10. Can I add nuts to the pesto?

Traditional pesto includes pine nuts, but you can add walnuts or omit them if preferred.

Conclusion

Pesto Chicken Bake is a straightforward and flavorful meal that combines tender chicken with the rich tastes of basil pesto and melted mozzarella. Its simplicity and versatility make it a great addition to any dinner table.

Pesto Chicken Bake

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• Author: Paula
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Pesto Chicken Bake is a delicious and simple weeknight dinner that combines juicy chicken breasts with aromatic basil pesto and melted mozzarella cheese. With minimal prep and a quick cook time, it’s the perfect meal for busy evenings. The vibrant flavors of pesto and gooey cheese will have everyone coming back for seconds!

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Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1/2 cup basil pesto

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Prepare the chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

• Assemble the dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spread a generous amount of basil pesto over each piece.

• Add cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pesto-coated chicken breasts.

• Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Chicken Thighs: For juicier chicken, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.

Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for provolone or Havarti for a different flavor profile.

Add Vegetables: Add sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers on top of the pesto before adding cheese for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per serving