Easy Baked Pesto Chicken
If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dinner option that’s packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place. This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken is a dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with the vibrant flavors of basil pesto and creamy mozzarella cheese. It’s an effortless recipe that comes together in just a few steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or even a cozy weekend dinner. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. So, let’s dive into the details of this delightful dish!
Why I Love This Recipe
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken is one of my all-time favorites for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort while still delivering maximum flavor. The bright and herby notes of the pesto complement the chicken perfectly, and the melted mozzarella on top adds a delightful creaminess that elevates the dish. It’s also versatile; you can serve it with a variety of sides or use it as a filling for wraps and sandwiches. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners.
Ingredient List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese (or more if you like it cheesy!)
Kitchen Gear Checklist
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch or similar size is ideal for even cooking.
- Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin: To pound the chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Measuring Cups: For accurate measurements of pesto and cheese.
- Cooking Spray or Olive Oil: To prevent sticking in the baking dish.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping the chicken.
Easy Baked Pesto Chicken: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken will bake evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to about 1-inch thickness. This step helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
Step 4: Add the Pesto
Spread a generous tablespoon of basil pesto on top of each chicken breast. Make sure to cover them evenly, allowing the flavors to infuse the chicken as it bakes.
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the pesto-covered chicken. Feel free to add more cheese if you’re a cheese lover!
Step 6: Bake
Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden. You can check for doneness by ensuring that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Then, serve it with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or pasta.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
- Chicken: Feel free to use chicken thighs for a more flavorful option.
- Pesto: Swap traditional basil pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto for a unique twist.
- Cheese: Try using feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor profile.
- Sides: In the fall, serve it with roasted butternut squash or in the summer, pair with a light cucumber salad.
Author’s Commentary
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying. It has become a staple in my kitchen, especially when I need something quick yet impressive. The versatility of the recipe allows you to get creative with the ingredients. I often find myself experimenting with different types of pesto or cheese based on what I have on hand. It’s also a great meal prep option; you can easily double the recipe and enjoy the leftovers for lunch during the week!
Prep Ahead & Store
If you want to prepare this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken in advance, you can marinate the chicken in the pesto and seasonings for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavor. Once baked, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and baking. Cooking from frozen can result in uneven cooking.
What can I substitute for basil pesto?
If you don’t have basil pesto, you can use other types of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato or roasted red pepper pesto. Alternatively, you can make a quick homemade version using fresh herbs, nuts, olive oil, and cheese.
How can I make this dish lower in calories?
To make this dish lower in calories, you can use less cheese or opt for a lower-fat cheese option. Additionally, serving it with a side of steamed vegetables instead of pasta can help reduce the overall calorie count.
Can I bake this chicken with vegetables?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers to the baking dish will not only enhance the flavor but also make for a complete meal. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Desserts to Finish
Make It Tonight
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken is calling your name! With minimal prep time and a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful meal that will impress your family or friends. Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let the aromas fill your kitchen as you bake this delightful dish. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Who knew that such a simple recipe could pack so much flavor? With its bright pesto and gooey cheese, this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken is sure to become a beloved addition to your dinner rotation. Enjoy!
Easy Baked Pesto Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to about 1-inch thickness.
- Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Spread a generous tablespoon of basil pesto on top of each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the pesto-covered chicken.
- Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken in pesto for enhanced flavor.
- Try chicken thighs for a richer taste.
- Add vegetables to the baking dish for a complete meal.
