Description
Pesto Chicken Bake is a delightful fusion of tender chicken breasts, aromatic pesto, and gooey melted cheese that makes for a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe requires minimal prep time and delivers maximum flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. As the chicken bakes to golden perfection, it absorbs the rich flavors of the pesto while being beautifully complemented by vibrant cherry tomatoes. With each slice, you’ll uncover layers of cheesy goodness that will leave everyone craving more. Serve this impressive dish with simple sides like garlic bread or a fresh salad to elevate your dining experience and enjoy a memorable meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; arrange in the baking dish.
- Generously spread pesto sauce over each piece of chicken.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and surround with halved cherry tomatoes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and cheese is bubbly.
- Drizzle with olive oil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: - Use fresh basil in homemade pesto for superior flavor. - Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers under the chicken for added nutrition. - Pair with garlic bread or a light salad to balance the richness.