Description
This Baked Pesto Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts coated with flavorful basil pesto, topped with juicy cherry tomatoes and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly seasoned and baked to juicy perfection, this Italian-inspired dish is quick to prepare and ideal for a comforting low-carb, gluten-free meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Pesto and Toppings
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Season Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences. Place the chicken evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Apply Pesto and Add Tomatoes: Spread about 2 tablespoons of basil pesto over each chicken breast, ensuring they’re well coated. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around and on top of the chicken for added flavor and moisture.
- Bake Until Nearly Cooked: Bake the chicken uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. The internal temperature should reach around 160°F (71°C), indicating the chicken is almost fully cooked.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the dish from the oven. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over each chicken breast. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve warm. This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Serve over pasta, rice, or with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- For a crispier cheese topping, broil the chicken for the last 2 minutes after adding the cheese.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored properly.
