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Baked Chicken Pesto Recipe
Easy Baked Chicken Pesto Recipe
Dive into the vibrant flavors of Italy with this Easy Baked Chicken Pesto recipe, a dish that marries the simplicity of oven baking with the rich, herby goodness of basil pesto. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress with minimal effort, featuring chicken breasts smothered in pesto sauce, topped with juicy tomatoes and gooey mozzarella cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s a healthy, flavorful meal ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1-2 tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Additional pesto for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will ensure your chicken cooks through while keeping the topping perfectly melted and bubbly.
- Prepare the Chicken: If the chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread Pesto: Arrange the chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking dish. Spread a generous layer of basil pesto over each breast, ensuring the entire surface is covered.
- Add Tomatoes and Cheese: Place a few slices of tomato on top of each pesto-covered chicken breast. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the tomatoes, covering them completely.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F) and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and additional flavor. Serve hot, with extra pesto on the side if desired.
Tips for Success:
- For an even richer flavor, you can mix a little Parmesan cheese into the pesto before spreading it on the chicken.
- Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers beneath the cheese layer.
- If you’re using store-bought pesto, consider enhancing it with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some extra minced garlic for a fresh kick.
This Baked Chicken Pesto is a testament to how a few quality ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s both simple and spectacular. It’s the kind of dish that makes weeknight dinners feel a little more special without any added stress. Pair it with a side of pasta, a light salad, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.