Description
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts smothered in flavorful basil pesto, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and baked to perfection with juicy cherry tomatoes. A simple yet delicious Italian-American main course perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Pesto
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetables and Cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and place the chicken breasts in a single layer.
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Apply Pesto: Spread 2 tablespoons of basil pesto evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the baking dish to roast alongside and add a burst of freshness.
- Bake Initially: Bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes, until it is nearly cooked through and the internal temperature reads about 160°F (71°C).
- Add Cheese: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over each chicken breast.
- Finish Baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve the baked pesto chicken hot, paired with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Pairs well with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Try variations using sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach pesto for different flavor profiles.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted; adjust baking time accordingly to ensure thorough cooking.
