Name: Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken: 5 Mouthwatering Servings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup basil pesto; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 1/2 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish); 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 clove garlic, minced (optional); 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes (optional)

Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that has transformed my dinner routine. This mouthwatering dish features tender chicken breasts drenched in rich basil pesto and topped with layers of gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with bold Italian flavor. Perfect for family dinners or impressing your guests, this easy recipe will quickly become your go-to choice for a delicious weeknight dinner. With a preparation time of only 10 minutes and a total time of 40 minutes, you’ll be enjoying this cheesy delight in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken

This Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken is not just about taste; it’s about convenience and health too! Here are several reasons why you’ll love this recipe:

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Low-carb and packed with protein, making it a healthy choice.
Deliciously cheesy, satisfying your cravings.
Versatile—perfect as a main dish or paired with sides.
Can be easily adjusted for dietary preferences.
Impressive enough to serve at a dinner party.
Utilizes simple ingredients, ensuring you can whip it up anytime.

This dish is a delightful oven-baked pesto chicken that is sure to impress anyone!

Ingredients for Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken

Gather these items:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup basil pesto
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 1/2 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes (optional)

How to Make Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Place the chicken in the baking dish with space between each piece.
Step 4: Spread 1–2 tablespoons of basil pesto over each breast.
Step 5: Pour marinara sauce over and around the chicken.
Step 6: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.
Step 7: Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
Step 8: Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for extra browned cheese.
Step 9: Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley or basil.
Step 10: Serve hot as-is or with a side of pasta, salad, or vegetables.

Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken: 5 Mouthwatering Servings - Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken

Keep these in mind:

This dish is great for meal planning.
Adjust the spice level by modifying red pepper flakes.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in pesto for a few hours prior to baking.
For a healthier option, consider using low-fat cheese.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken

Here are some fantastic ideas for serving:

Pair it with garlic bread for a classic Italian meal.
Serve over a bed of fresh spinach for a light, healthy option.
Accompany with roasted vegetables for a complete dinner.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken

To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. This dish is also suitable for meal prep, allowing for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken?

The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients, particularly fresh basil pesto and good-quality cheese. This enhances the flavors and makes for a delicious pesto chicken bake.

Can I make Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance by assembling it in the baking dish and refrigerating it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a great option for a one-pan baked pesto chicken dinner.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken?

Avoid overcooking the chicken, as it can become dry. Make sure to check the internal temperature and remove it from the oven when it reaches 165°F. This ensures a juicy and flavorful cheesy pesto chicken recipe.

Variations of Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken You Can Try

Here are some tasty variations:

For a creamy twist, add a layer of cream cheese or ricotta before the pesto.
For a Mediterranean flair, include sun-dried tomatoes and olives.
To make it a pesto chicken casserole bake, add cooked pasta to the dish before baking.

For more tips on meal planning, check out this article. If you’re interested in low-carb recipes, visit this link for more ideas. You can also explore healthy cooking tips to enhance your culinary skills.