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!
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup basil pesto
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Prepare the chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
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Assemble the dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spread a generous amount of basil pesto over each piece.
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Add cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pesto-coated chicken breasts.
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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.
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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
