If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet super easy to whip up, my cheesy pesto baked chicken recipe is a total game-changer! I remember the first time I made this for my family; the aroma of melting cheese and fresh pesto filled the kitchen, and everyone gathered around, eager to dig in. It’s become a staple in our home because it’s not just quick to prepare, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser! Trust me, the combination of tender chicken, zesty pesto, and gooey cheese will make your taste buds dance. You’ll be hooked after the first bite, just like I was!
Ingredients for Cheesy Pesto Baked Chicken Recipe
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup store-bought or homemade pesto sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Cheesy Pesto Baked Chicken Recipe
Preheat the Oven
First things first, we need to get that oven nice and toasty! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). This step is so important because it ensures your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden finish. Plus, who doesn’t love the anticipation of a warm oven while you prep?
Prepare the Chicken
Now grab a baking dish and drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil right in there. This little bit of oil helps the chicken stay moist and adds flavor. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides—don’t be shy! Then, lay them in the dish. Next, it’s time to spread that gorgeous pesto sauce evenly over each chicken breast. Make sure every inch is covered; we want all that deliciousness to soak in!
Add the Cheese
Here comes the fun part! Sprinkle that shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese generously over the pesto-covered chicken. I like to go heavy on the cheese because it melts beautifully and creates the most irresistible, gooey topping. Yum!
Bake and Rest
Pop your baking dish in the oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbling and golden. Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and delicious. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Tips for Success with Cheesy Pesto Baked Chicken Recipe
To make sure your cheesy pesto baked chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my go-to tips! First and foremost, keep an eye on the chicken’s internal temperature—you’re aiming for 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part. A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
Also, check on that cheese as it bakes. You want it to be beautifully melted and lightly golden, but not burnt. If you notice it browning too quickly, just loosely cover the dish with foil to prevent overcooking.
And don’t forget to taste! Adjust the seasoning with a little extra salt and pepper as needed before serving, because every palate is different. Just a dash can elevate those flavors even more. Trust me, these little tweaks can make a big difference in your dish!
Variations on Cheesy Pesto Baked Chicken Recipe
One of the best things about my cheesy pesto baked chicken recipe is how versatile it is! If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some fun variations to try that can shake things up in the kitchen.
- Chicken Thighs: Swap out the chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful meat. They’ll add a different texture and richness that pairs beautifully with the pesto and cheese.
- Different Cheeses: While mozzarella and parmesan are classic choices, feel free to experiment! Try using provolone for a sharper flavor or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy twist. Each cheese will bring its unique flair to the dish.
- Add Vegetables: For an extra nutrient boost, toss in some veggies! Sliced bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes can be added to the baking dish alongside the chicken. They’ll roast beautifully and add color and flavor.
- Pasta Bake: If you want to turn this into a pasta dish, cook some penne or rotini, mix it with the pesto, and layer it at the bottom of the baking dish. Place the chicken on top and bake as usual for a comforting one-pan meal!
- Spicy Kick: Love a little heat? Mix in some red pepper flakes with the pesto or top the cheese with sliced jalapeños before baking. It’ll give your chicken a delightful spicy kick!
These variations are not only fun but also make it easy to customize this dish to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Enjoy experimenting!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying my cheesy pesto baked chicken recipe, you’ll be glad to know that it’s not just delicious but also relatively healthy! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving, which is one chicken breast:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
These values are estimates based on standard ingredients and serving sizes, so keep in mind that actual nutrition can vary a bit depending on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. But the great news is, this recipe packs in a good amount of protein while keeping the carbs low. Perfect for a satisfying meal!
FAQ about Cheesy Pesto Baked Chicken Recipe
How long do I need to bake the chicken?
You’ll want to bake your cheesy pesto chicken for about 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Just keep an eye on it, and make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), let the chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What should I serve with this dish?
I love pairing this cheesy pesto baked chicken with a fresh side salad or some steamed veggies for a light and colorful meal. You could also serve it over pasta or rice for a heartier option. The possibilities are endless!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor-packed with the perfect blend of pesto and gooey cheese.
- Uses simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
- Versatile—customize with your favorite veggies or cheeses.
- Great for meal prep; leftovers are just as delicious the next day.
- Impressive enough for guests, yet simple enough for a cozy family dinner.
- Low in carbs and high in protein—satisfying without the guilt!
Cheesy Pesto Baked Chicken Recipe: 7 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful cheesy pesto baked chicken dish that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, drizzle olive oil and season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Spread pesto sauce evenly over each chicken breast.
- Top with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
- Can substitute chicken thighs for a different texture.
- Adjust the amount of cheese to your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: cheesy pesto baked chicken recipe
