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Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe

4.6 from 143 reviews

This Baked Pesto Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts topped with flavorful pesto and melted cheese, baked to perfection. It’s a simple yet delicious dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual meal with family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)

Pesto

  • 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the pesto adheres well.
  2. Apply Pesto: Evenly spread about 2 tablespoons of pesto over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
  3. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the pesto-topped chicken breasts.
  4. Bake: Place the prepared chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to avoid overcooking.
  • Pesto can be homemade or store-bought based on preference.
  • Substitute mozzarella with dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free option.
  • Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Keywords: Baked Pesto Chicken, Pesto Chicken, Easy Chicken Recipe, Italian Chicken, Baked Chicken with Cheese